Constipation Toddler
Why it Happens
How to Remedy the Problem

By Dr. Ritu Krishnatreye, BHMS

Constipation toddler

Does your little one have difficulty pooping? Constipation in toddlers is a common problem.

According to a report in the Journal of Pediatric Care, around five per cent of visits to a pediatrician are due to constipation.

An overview of constipation in toddlers

Constipation in toddlers is defined by the consistency of the stools, usually hard stools, rather than the number of stools.

Constipation in toddlers is easy to treat. Usually minor changes in diet and lifestyle are enough, but sometimes a home remedy may be needed.

Before we look at constipation relief in toddlers, let’s first take a look at why toddlers get constipated in the first place. 

Causes of Constipation in Toddlers

Delaying going to the toilet

Unlike constipation in adults, constipation in kids is many times a behavioral problem rather than a nutritional disorder. This can again be due to a number of reasons:

• The toddler has had a painful experience defecating and avoids it
  
  
• The toddler may be busy with games and toys, and puts off a trip to the potty
  
  
• It may be an issue of lack of privacy or a stinky smell 

When a toddler puts off going when the feel the urge to go, it gives the colon more time to extract moisture from stool.

The result is hard, difficult to pass stool, the pain of which can be even more reason for the toddler to adopt a lifestyle of avoiding the potty.

A lack of fiber

Another common cause is an insufficient amount of fiber in the toddler’s diet, leading to constipation.

We all agree that children can be picky eaters. Given an option, most would prefer eating fast food and junk food rather than healthy, fiber filled vegetables and fruits.

As the toddler’s parent, it is our responsibility to help them to eat a healthy diet, one that contains an adequate amount of fiber. 

Childhood is phase of growth and development. Whatever good habits are introduced at this age they can stay with them into adulthood.

A lack of water

Water intake is also important to staying hydrated and passing normal, soft stools. Toddlers need water available when they feel thirsty to avoid becoming dehydrated. 

A lack of exercise

Just like in adults, a lack of physical activity is associated with constipation in toddlers. 

Other causes

Infectious diseases and the use of certain medications can also cause constipation in toddlers.

Medical causes

In rare cases, constipation can be due to abnormalities of the anus or rectum, Hirshsprung’s disease and lead poisoning.

If constipation persists even after using appropriate remedies, please let your pediatrician know. 

Ways to Relieve Constipation in Toddlers

Schedule a regular potty time

A toddler may be so busy playing that he does not want to stop to visit the bathroom.

For whatever reason the child is avoiding the bathroom, scheduling a regular potty time can help toddlers establish good bowel habits and therefore avoid constipation.

1. Observe the times of day when the toddler normally has bowel movements
   
   
2. Have the toddler sit on the potty around that time
   
   
3. Talk with him about things he is interested in

Add more fiber

Add a variety of vegetables, fruits and whole grain foods to encourage proper bowel movements. Cut down on junk food and replace it with healthy options like flavored yogurt and nuts.

Increase fluid intake

• Encourage your toddler to drink enough water
  
  
• Keep a sippy cup sitting around to make occasional sips convenient
  
  
• Offer the toddler other fluid options, including soup and juices

Encourage exercise

Instead of allowing the child to spend extensive time in front of the TV, get the child moving.

Some sort of physical activity is necessary to keep the digestive system healthy. Moreover, exercise is good for overall development.

Give a little magnesium each day

If after trying the above measures your child is still passing hard dry stools, you can give your child a natural trace minerals that your child may not be getting in his diet.

Conclusion, constipation toddler

Constipation is a common childhood problem.

Instead of worrying and stressing about it, take the above mentioned steps that will help in relieving constipation in your little one. If the condition still persists, talk to your child’s pediatrician.

(Return from Constipation Toddler to Chronic Constipation in Toddler)