Just like adults, constipation is common among infants and children too. At least 3% of the children visiting the hospitals are due to constipation. Constipation is a condition where there are infrequent bowel movements. The stool is hard and dry. The patient may suffer from some kind of pain as well. The reason behind children suffering from constipation is because they do not consume enough liquids, take less fiber diet and drink too much cow's milk. Some children may have constipation due to bad potty training experience too. Children with special needs such as those with Down's syndrome, spina bifida and cerebral palsy may also suffer from constipation. There are various natural constipation remedies to treat the condition. The doctor may even look for parasites symptoms.
Home remedies
The best natural constipation remedies for constipation in toddlers are available in your kitchen. You have to increase the amount of water intake along with fresh fruits and vegetables. Increasing intake of fiber is also recommended for reducing the symptoms of the condition. Try to reduce the amounts of processed foods, drinks and foods that contain additives and snacks made of white flour and sugar.
There are many toddler laxatives that can be beneficial for treating constipation. Use over-the-counter laxative only as a last resort. Laxatives based on fruits are good for easing the condition. You can give them whole kiwi fruit or the juice squeezed from a fresh kiwi fruit. Fruits such as peaches, plums, pears and apples before meals are also good. Give them vegetables like carrots, cabbage and tomato raw before meals. If your toddler is not ready to eat this, make it more interesting by blending the fruit or vegetable in a blender and serve in his favorite cup. You can even freeze the mixture or put it in Popsicle trays. Though some amount of the enzymes will be lost, it can still be beneficial for relieving constipation.
Other treatments
If your toddler is experiencing painful constipation, try other treatments other than the natural constipation remedies. Try to make the toilet experience more pleasant by reading their favorite book or playing their favorite songs. Help them to relax well and avoid putting pressure on them.
All the normal activities in children such as running and playing are more than enough to keep them healthy. But children suffering from constipation may be less active. A good exercise that can be helpful is to make them lie on the back and press slightly towards the chest. Straighten them back after this action. Repeat this at least for five times. If painful do not continue it. This relaxes your child and makes the bowel movements easier.