Constipation is a common problem during the toddler years. When too much milk is to blame, the solution is usually as simple as reducing milk intake or switching to non-dairy milk. But other factors, including diet and activity level, can also contribute to constipation, so it's important to identify all the factors that are constipating your toddler before trying to resolve the issue.
Milk Intake
Just as you shouldn't let your child graze on snacks all day long, your toddler shouldn't have constant and unlimited access to milk. Limit him to 12 to 18 oz. of milk per day, and see if that eases his constipation; if not, cut back to 12 oz. or less. If even minimal milk intake seems to cause constipation, try switching to a different type of milk. Cow's milk can constipate regardless of the fat percentage, but dairy-free varieties like soy milk and rice milk offer essential nutrients like protein, fat and calcium without the binding effect of dairy milk, according to information from Columbia University.
Cutting Back on Milk
For many toddlers, drinking milk throughout the day is a hard habit to break. If your child's milk habit is causing constipation and you're struggling to reduce her intake, first make sure she's drinking out of a cup rather than a bottle, recommends Dr. Karen Sokal-Gutierrez. Your toddler may also be filling up on milk instead of food when she's hungry, so offer milk only after she's eaten. Finally, fill up her cup with water for sipping on throughout the day, and save milk for special times like before naps and bedtime.
Foods to Encourage
For many toddlers, constipation isn't about what they're eating, but what they're missing. Fiber-rich foods and plenty of fluids are key for preventing and treating constipation, as they create looser, softer stools. Offer your child water throughout the day, and give him constant access to a cup of water so he can help himself to a drink anytime he's thirsty. Make sure meals and snacks contain an assortment of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole-grains. Top choices include whole-grain bread and crackers, whole-wheat pasta, beans, pears, peas, broccoli, apricots, plums and prunes.
Healthy Habits
Diet isn't the sole contributing factor to constipation. Toddlers who aren't very active may have reduced blood flow to the digestive system, which can cause stools to become hard and dry. Make sure you limit TV and computer time, and encourage your child to crawl, climb and run by taking her outside, heading to the playground and engaging her in active games. Withholding stools can also worsen constipation, so toddlers who are toilet-trained should sit on the potty at regular intervals throughout the day. If your child rarely asks to use the toilet, get in the habit of taking her to the potty for five to 10 minutes after meals.
