Natural Remedies for Constipation in Kids
 | Constipation can be a frustrating (and uncomfortable) issue for kids of any age. Luckily it’s often an issue that can be resolved with a little detective work and few basic changes. |
Start With the Basics: Water!
When a parent brings a child for constipation I always start by asking the same question: how much water do they drink? If your child hardly drinks any water during the day, or mostly sticks to sugary drinks and energy drinks, they may be at risk for chronic dehydration. Dehydrated stool is dry, hard, and hard to pass. Because of this, it can lead to constipation, or even painful issues like fissures.
Water requirements are different for kids at different ages - ask your doctor how much water is the right daily intake for your child.
Water requirements are different for kids at different ages - ask your doctor how much water is the right daily intake for your child.
Fiber? Yes or No?
 | We often hear that the first line of defense for constipation is fiber. And for some children, this really does help. For others, fiber can actually make things worse! Part of this confusion is because there are two main types of fiber - soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber soaks up water and turns to a kind of jelly in the digestive track. This can act as a lubricant for the gut, helping everything pass more easily. |
Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, adds is bulk to stool. If your child is drinking plenty of water, this may help them pass their stool more quickly - but if getting them to drink water is a struggle and they tend toward dehydration, the added bulk to their stool may actually make constipation worse.
Identify Food Allergies
| Although we often think of food allergies as causing loose stool, food allergies are actually one of the most common causes of childhood constipation - in one study, food allergies were the cause of issues in almost 73% of constipated kids! Fortunately there are a lot of ways to identify food allergies and sensitivities - there are several types of blood tests that your child can get, and then there’s always the dreaded (but very effective and 100% free) elimination diet. |  |
Even though giving up a favorite food can be a tough adjustment for a lot of kids, many kids are willing to make changes once they see a real payoff - no more stomach aches or pain when they have to go.
Herbs and Supplements
There are lots of tasty herbs that help the liver produce more bile, which can loosen and soften stool. However, not all of these herbs are safe for kids, and many herbs can cause problems if they are taken the wrong way or in the wrong amounts.
 | In addition, supplements for kids with constipation should be given following an individualized plan, tailored to meet your child's specific needs and taking into account everything else that's going on with their health. Any time you’re using herbs or supplements with kids, you should always do so under the care of your ND or other holistic health practitioner! |
Potty Ambiance
| Yep. Sometimes setting the mood matters! Kids should feel relaxed and happy about using the bathroom. Having favorite toys and decorations, fun things to look at or read, and even adding nice things like music can help your child get into a relaxed state when they are trying to go. |  |
Want Dr Silver’s help with constipation or any other health-related issue your little one might be struggling with? Call (248) 629-0224 or click here to set up an appointment for a visit or a free 15 minute phone consult.
