Bowel habits vary from child to child, but the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, advises that a child who has not had a bowel movement within four days, is constipated. In other children, constipation occurs sooner. This condition, which features hard stools with low moisture content, can be uncomfortable for the child. However, some home remedies might help an occasional bout of constipation. Although most bouts of constipation in children are temporary, if your child has frequent episodes of painful constipation, consult your pediatrician to rule out an underlying disorder.
Fiber-Rich Foods
Fiber absorbs liquid in the stomach and retains it, resulting in moist, and looser, stools. Feed your child fiber-rich foods including, whole grain bread and cereal products, fresh, canned or frozen fruits and an assortment of vegetables. Carrots, celery, apples, pears, peaches, bananas, leafy greens provide healthy sources of fiber. In addition, beans, lentils and other legumes may offer relief from constipation.
Substitute whole-wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour in baking recipes to add fiber to your child's diet. In addition, sprinkling wheat germ on hot cereal, breads and muffins will add fiber without diminishing taste.
Hydration
The more liquid the child consumes, the more likely he is to have regular bowel movements and stools that are comfortable to pass. Offer your child plenty of fresh water throughout the day. Some children resist drinking plain water but they may quickly drink fruit juices diluted with water. Avoid milk, however, since it may increase constipation in some children.
Relaxation Techniques
Constipation in a child can be the result of anxiety over controlling her bowel movements. When a child enters school, she may experience frequent bouts of constipation if she resists having bowel movements while at school. Encourage your child to stay on the commode for up to 10 minutes before and after school to help her normalize her bowel movements. In addition, consider delaying toilet training in very young children who develop constipation.
The Mayo Clinic suggests teaching a child to take slow deep breaths to relax and to invoke a mental image of the child's favorite place. Gentle abdominal massage may also help relax the child's abdominal muscles and promote a bowel movement.
References
- Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 1; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Mayo Clinic: Constipation in Children: Alternative Treatments
- Mother Nature: Constipation: The Route to Regularity
