Constipated Kid? Tips to Ease Constipation & Help Get Things Moving!

Several factors can contribute to constipation in children:

Diet

A diet lacking fiber is one of the most common causes of constipation. Fiber helps add bulk to stools and keeps them soft, making it easier for the digestive system to move waste through. Without enough high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, stools can become hard and difficult to pass. Additionally, a diet high in processed foods, sugar, or low in water can worsen constipation by dehydrating the body and slowing digestion.

Dehydration

Not drinking enough water can harden stool. Water and foods with high water content are essential to stool softening and making it easier to pass. If your child is showing signs of dehydration, offer them water and call the pediatrician if symptoms worsen.

Stress or anxiety

Stress and anxiety can interfere with the signals between the brain and the gut, slowing down digestion. Emotional stress from school, family, or social pressures may lead to irregular bowel movements.

Changes in routine

Disruptions like traveling, changes in sleep patterns, or starting a new school year can throw off a child's regular bathroom habits. These routine changes often delay bowel movements, contributing to constipation.

Not sure if your little one is constipated or not? See if they’re exhibiting one of the symptoms below:

• Fewer bowel movements than usual

• Hard, dry stool

• Pain or discomfort during bowel movements

• Loss of appetite

• Abdominal pain or bloating

• Stool leakage

• Holding in stool

If your child is experiencing severe constipation, persistent pain, or blood in their stool, contact your pediatrician.

Here are some effective strategies for kid and toddler constipation relief:

High-Fiber, Kid-Friendly Foods

This one might be tough, but encourage your little bee to eat a colorful plate. Foods high in fiber help prevent and relieve constipation, so include fruits like pears, plums, and berries into their diet, along with vegetables (leafy greens and broccoli, for example!). Whole grain bread, brown rice, and whole wheat pasta are also high in fiber.

Staying Hydrated

Dehydration can lead to hard, painful bowel movements. Your child should be drinking more fluids, especially water throughout the day to stay hydrated and keep things moving.

Get Moving!

Kids who are sedentary are more likely to become constipated, so get your little one outside. Regular physical activity can help stimulate bowel movements.

Probiotic and Prebiotic Supplements

Probiotics can help improve gut health and regulate bowel movements, while prebiotics feed the good bacteria in your child’s gut. Consider convenient supplements like Zarbee’s Children’s Multivitamin + Probiotic to help support their digestive health*. Check out our Prebiotic vs. Probiotic article to learn more!

Tummy Massage to Relieve Constipation

Abdominal massages can help relieve constipation by relieving gas and waste products. Gently massage your little one’s tummy to help stimulate the intestines and improve digestive health.

Consult your pediatrician if your child’s constipation persists or worsens. Try the tips above to help alleviate your child’s constipation and promote healthy digestion!