According to Dr. Nguyen Huu Hieu, Department of Pediatrics, Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, constipation is a condition where children have bowel movements less frequently than normal, fewer than three times a week, with dry, hard stools. Children often experience stomach aches, fussiness, and discomfort, which can lead to poor nutrient absorption and complications like anal fissures and rectal prolapse. Here are ways to relieve and prevent this condition.

Increase natural fiber intake.

In addition to the 4 essential food groups—protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals—parents should increase their children's intake of fiber-rich foods. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are excellent sources of fiber. A sufficient fiber intake promotes regular bowel movements and improves gut motility. Parents should encourage children to eat at regular intervals, eat slowly, and chew thoroughly to reduce the burden on the digestive system and maintain healthy bowel function.

Limit foods that cause constipation.

Fast food and processed foods are often low in fiber and high in fat, leading to digestive difficulties. Parents should limit these foods in their children's diets. They should also avoid giving children excessive amounts of sweets, dairy products like cheese, or cow's milk.

Drink enough water.

Dehydration is a contributing factor to constipation in children. Parents should ensure their children drink enough water daily to aid digestion, soften stools, and facilitate easier waste elimination. Adequate hydration also plays a vital role in metabolism, helping the body transport nutrients effectively.

Dr. Hieu examines a young patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Hieu examines a young patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Supplement with probiotics.

Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics that parents can incorporate into their children's daily diet. Probiotics help balance the gut microbiome, improve digestion and nutrient absorption, and support easier bowel movements.

Establish healthy toilet habits.

Parents should encourage their children to establish regular toilet habits, ideally at the same time each day, after breakfast or a light meal, to help develop a natural bowel movement reflex. Children should be encouraged to use the toilet when they feel the urge and avoid holding it in, which can lead to constipation. Creating a comfortable and quiet environment during toilet time can also help reduce stress and facilitate easier bowel movements.

Encourage physical activity.

Children should participate in age-appropriate physical activities like walking, cycling, and playing soccer. This promotes physical development, stimulates gut motility, and supports a more efficient digestive system. Regular exercise also improves overall health, mood, and helps prevent constipation.

Supplement with medication or digestive enzymes as directed by a doctor.

If a child's constipation doesn't improve after dietary adjustments and is accompanied by bloating, distension, bloody stools, or significant pain during physical activity, parents should take them to a doctor. Depending on the child's condition and the cause of the constipation, the doctor may prescribe medication or digestive enzymes to balance the gut microbiome and aid digestion.

Don Thuong