Discovering that your toddler has diarrhea can be unnerving, particularly if he displays no other symptoms of illness. While a gastrointestinal infection is one of the most common causes of diarrhea in toddlers, the grains your little one eats may also contribute to a bout of loose stools. Most cases of diarrhea do not last for more than a few days, but if your toddler has had diarrhea for longer, contact his doctor right away. He might have an intolerance or allergy to certain grains that is causing the condition.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea often begins with stomach cramping. The abdominal pain is followed by several trips to the restroom or diaper changes due to loose and watery stools. Ask Dr. Sears, a website from renowned pediatrician Dr. William Sears, notes that diarrhea might occur as many as 10 times per day. The most common causes of diarrhea in toddlers include infection from viruses, bacteria or parasites. These infections typically last for a few days. If your toddler has more chronic diarrhea, but does not have a fever, loss of appetite or vomiting, he might be experiencing a food intolerance or allergy.
Food Intolerance
Many toddlers experience diarrhea as they are introduced to new foods. The new foods might cause temporary diarrhea that usually does not return as your toddler continues to eat the food. If your toddler has a food intolerance, his digestive system has a hard time digesting it, which can lead to frequent diarrhea. Certain grains that contain gluten and other proteins might cause a digestive reaction in your toddler. If you notice that your toddler has diarrhea after eating wheat, barley or rye, he might have an intolerance to the proteins in grains.
Food Allergy
A food allergy can cause diarrhea just like a food intolerance, but your toddler will also exhibit an immune system response that lets you know it is an allergic reaction. An allergy to grains might cause diarrhea, including bloody diarrhea, but will also cause reactions such as hives, wheezing or difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms accompanies your toddler's diarrhea, seek immediate medical attention.
Treatment
If you suspect your toddler has an intolerance or allergy to grains, see his pediatrician to determine an appropriate course of treatment. Certain grains are recommended when your toddler has diarrhea, provided his diarrhea is due to a gastrointestinal illness and not an intolerance or allergy. Plain rice or unbuttered toast might help settle your toddler's stomach. Serve these grains in small amounts while he exhibits symptoms. Offer plenty of water, as well, to replace the fluids your toddler loses while he has diarrhea.
References
- Ask Dr. Sears: Diarrhea
- KidsHealth: Diarrhea
- Toddler 411: Clear Answers & Smart Advice for Your Toddler; Denise Fields and Ari Brown
