How to Relieve Toddler Constipation: 3 Ways

Help! Our Toddler is constipated

Have you ever struggled with constipation for yourself ? 

Now seeing your sweet child struggle with it too? It’s a terrible thing to experience as a Mother and that’s why we are here today with this post.

Here’s an overview of what we will be talking about today: 

1. What goes in – Diet 

2. Activity 

3. How it comes out: Poop time 

Diet 

Toddlers are notoriously called picky eaters for good reason. It wasn’t until we had our second child, Maria, that I realized toddlers can love food. I thought they all hated it. Which reminds me, check out this about why you should have more kids! https://themomlineja.com/8-reasons-why-more-children-is-less-stressful/- (blog post about having more kids) 

In an ideal world, your toddler will eat lots of fibre rich foods, protein, fruits and drink lots of water. If this were the case, I wouldn’t be here writing this. 

Unfortunately, those toddlers are few and far in between. Most of us have toddlers who run around eating snacks and eat very little of the nutrituous food no matter how much we beg them. 

If you are battling through constipation, here are a few tips I’ve learned so far. 

• INCREASE Water Intake 

 Toddlers need to drink at least 1 to 3, 8oz cups of water. 

Water is vital for the proper functioning of all the organs, including the Gastrointestinal tract and aiding in the prevention of constipation.

This sounds easy until you encounter a toddler whose favourite word is NO! 

• Prunes 

Prune Juice also helps to relieve constipation and it helps to keep them regular, You cant go wrong with it.

• Increase Fresh Fruits like Mangoes and Apples. This would depend on what is in season where you are living. I would say the key thing is to find a fruit they like and life should get easier after that. Our son didn’t like Mangoes but he would absolutely love strawberries. Hearing the word alone would make his face light up. 

• Foods like corn, whole grain cereal eg. Oatmeal which naturally absorbs water thereby adding bulk to the stool.

• AVOID ANYTHING WITH WHITE FLOUR AT ALL COSTS 

Activity 

Nowadays, with the advent of screens. Children spend less time playing, which contributes to a sedentary lifestyle and obesity. Not to mention slowing down of the gut.

This is why playing should always be encouraged because, not only does it help to get the gut moving, it is where children learn how to build problem solving , decision making skills and creativity. 

Poop Time 

If you’ve been doing the above and your child still struggling to pass stool. 

Here are some ways to assist: 

Laxatives 

My favourite laxative is called Fletcher’s Laxative for Kids and I like it for these reasons:

1. It is made from Senna Pods (a plant known for its benefits of relieving constipation).

2. It is Gentle so its perfect for children. (No abdominal cramps)

3. Nice Flavour.

4. Affordable at about $8-10 USD per bottle.

Glycerin Suppositories 

There are infant size glycerin suppositories which are amazing to help your little one who is obviously struggling to pass stool. It works within a few minutes and is also another affordable option.

This would depend on where you are but here in Jamaica, it’s less than 5 USD for a pack of 12 suppositories.

Disclaimer: While I am a Medical Doctor, this is just advice and I recommend always speaking to your doctor about changes in your child’s stool pattern.

Finally, as a new Mom experiencing the struggles of a toddler with constipation, I hope this little guide will help you. 

I pray that things will get better soon!

Thank you for reading today.

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Have a great week!

Til Next Time,

Abby 

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