Calcium is an important nutrient that is typically obtained through dietary intake and is stored in your child's bones and teeth. While most children are able to obtain sufficient calcium from dietary sources, some children, particularly those who cannot tolerate dairy products, may require supplementation. Calcium in foods does not cause constipation, but calcium supplements often have this side effect. (Reference 3).
Background
While most children will obtain the calcium that they need through dietary intake, your child may be prescribed a calcium supplement if they cannot consume adequate calcium. For a child ages 1-3, the recommended intake is 500mg/day while for ages 4-8 it is 800mg/day and for 9-18 it is 1300mg/day. Calcium is important for strong bones and supports many of the body's functions. If you do not have enough calcium in your diet, the calcium is taken from your bones where it is stored and can result in weakened bones and teeth. (Reference 3).
Symptoms
Signs that your child may be constipated include a lack of bowel movements for several days, bowel movements that are difficult to pass, nausea, poor appetite and blood on the surface of hard stool. Your child may fear having a bowel movement or try to avoid it, which can worsen the constipation. (Reference 2).Constipation related to calcium supplements can occur shortly after your child starts the supplements or after he has been taking them for a long time.
Treatment
If your child has severe constipation while on calcium supplementation, stopping the supplement until symptoms improve may be necessary. As stated on MayoClinic, your child's physician may prescribe over the counter fiber supplements or medication to soften her stool. Your child should drink a lot of fluids and should increase the fiber in her diet. Foods high in fiber include beans, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. (Reference 2).
Prevention
As constipation is a known side effect of calcium supplements, increasing the fiber in your child's diet when starting the calcium can be helpful. Regular toilet habits, such as ensuring that your child tries to have a bowel movement after every meal, can also be helpful. Additionally, starting with the lowest dose possible can help reduce the risk of constipation. As stated by the New York Department of Health, calcium carbonate usually has the highest amount of calcium per dose while calcium gluconate has less calcium per dose.
Considerations
Attempting to obtain more calcium from dietary sources is helpful if your child suffers from constipation while on calcium supplements. Foods that contain high levels of calcium include milk and other dairy products such as cheese, yogurt and pudding. For example, 1 cup of yogurt contains 200-400mg of calcium while 8 ounces of cow's milk contains 300mg. Soy foods such as soy yogurt or sour cream are often fortified with calcium. Bread and cereal products are sometimes fortified with calcium and so can also be a good source, but naturally do not contain significant amounts of calcium.
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