My 1 1/2 year old baby daughter is having difficult with her bowel. She seems to have a constipation sensation. I have personally never seen small aged children having constipation in my life.
I like to seek guidance on the causes, cures and prevention for constipation in babies and toddlers. Thanks
Any time my daughter seems to have constipation I increase her water and offer her prunes, pears, or raisins. All of these have helped. If it is happening often, keep a food journal and talk with either the pediatrician or a nutritionist about what might be the cause. Bananas, apples, and dairy are common causes.
The most common cause of constipation in toddlers is diet.
From WebMD:
The culprit in many cases of toddler constipation is a diet that's too heavy in processed foods and sweets, and too light in fiber (like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables). Not getting enough fluid can also lead to constipation, because it makes the stools harder. Any change in diet -- such as when your toddler transitions from breast milk or formula to cow's milk or starts eating new foods -- can also affect the stools.
Limiting especially constipating food like cheese and bananas especially can help. Adding additional liquids (water, juice, watermelon) and high fiber foods can help. Try adding prunes or plum juice, pears, raisins, etc. At 1 1/2 using babyfood pureeed versions of some of these items may be a good option. If keeping an eye on your toddler's diet and steering it in a better direction alone is not enough to relieve chronic constipation, your pediatrician may recommend a fiber supplement or stool softener.
My wife and I were given the advice of giving cooled boiled water (mixed with formula, if applicable). It worked for our 5 months old baby. We also have a 3 years old boy and he used to have the same trouble. We gave him water and grapes and went low on the dairy products.
Here are some great links for more information :
Constipation becomes difficult to remedy the longer it takes for a bowel movement to occur. You may have to use some remedies or laxatives such as glycerin to "push" it along.
