Constipation among toddlers is not that uncommon an occurrence. This ailment causes the child to experience difficult and often painful passage of dry and hard stools. When toddlers are constipated they generally experience irregular bowel movements. In addition to this, they may also try to control their bowel movements in order to avoid the pain. This then prolongs the condition which only makes the situation even worse. Due to this reason, it is important for parents to exercise an adequate amount of care when their toddler or child is constipated.
Some of the reasons behind constipation among children are a diet that is low in fiber, a reduced intake of water, consumption of a lot of solid foods, and an excessive intake of milk, particularly cow’s milk and milk products.
Symptoms that your toddler may be constipated include a slow down in his or her bowel movements, discomfort or pain during a bowel movement, hardened or inflamed stomach, hard stools, and a swollen belly. This condition however can be treated with a few simple home remedies. First and foremost increase their intake of water and fluids. Vegetable soups and fruit juices should be incorporated into their diet. This will be beneficial as it will also increase their fiber intake. Make the child drink a lot of water; this will keep dehydration and bay, while also promoting regularity in bowel movements. Toddler constipation treatment also involves increasing the quantity of fiber in their food. Foods that are rich in fiber such as bran and fiber should be incorporated into their diet. Encourage your child to consume more fruits like grapes, apricots, apples and pears. Do not feed your child bananas, as they generally have a tendency of aggravating constipation.
Lower the consumption of constipating foods. Cooked carrots, cheese, yogurt and milk are known to induce constipation and hence should their intake should be reduced until the child is no longer constipated. Toddler constipation remedies also include feeding the child vegetables such as green beans, squash, peas and carrots. You can either chop them into fine pieces or mash them into a paste so as to prevent any accidental choking. In case they refuse to eat fruits, then substitute the fruits with juices. Massage the child’s abdomen with a few drops of warm coconut oil. This will help in gaining relief from any pain and discomfort. Increase their physical activity by thirty minutes a day. This is because exercise is known to reduce as well as prevent constipation.