Constipation in children – Symptoms and causes

Overview

Constipation in children is a common problem. A constipated child has infrequent bowel movements or hard, dry stools.

Common causes include early toilet training and changes in diet. Fortunately, most cases of constipation in children are temporary.

Encouraging your child to make simple dietary changes — such as eating more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables and drinking more water — can go a long way toward alleviating constipation. If your child’s doctor approves, it may be possible to treat a child’s constipation with laxatives.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of constipation in children may include:

• Less than three bowel movements a week
• Bowel movements that are hard, dry and difficult to pass
• Pain while having a bowel movement
• Stomach pain
• Traces of liquid or pasty stool in your child’s underwear — a sign that stool is backed up in the rectum
• Blood on the surface of hard stool

If your child fears that having a bowel movement will hurt, he or she may try to avoid it. You may notice your child crossing his or her legs, clenching his or her buttocks, twisting his or her body, or making faces when attempting to hold stool.

When to see a doctor

Constipation in children usually isn’t serious. However, chronic constipation may lead to complications or signal an underlying condition. Take your child to a doctor if the constipation lasts longer than two weeks or is accompanied by:

• Fever
• Not eating
• Blood in the stool
• Abdominal swelling
• Weight loss
• Pain during bowel movements
• Part of the intestine coming out of the anus (rectal prolapse)

Causes

Constipation most commonly occurs when waste or stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract, causing the stool to become hard and dry.

Many factors can contribute to constipation in children, including:

• Withholding. Your child may ignore the urge to have a bowel movement because he or she is afraid of the toilet or doesn’t want to take a break from play. Some children withhold when they’re away from home because they’re uncomfortable using public toilets.

  Painful bowel movements caused by large, hard stools also may lead to withholding. If it hurts to poop, your child may try to avoid a repeat of the distressing experience.

• Toilet training issues. If you begin toilet training too soon, your child may rebel and hold in stool. If toilet training becomes a battle of wills, a voluntary decision to ignore the urge to poop can quickly become an involuntary habit that’s tough to change.
• Changes in diet. Not enough fiber-rich fruits and vegetables or fluid in your child’s diet may cause constipation. One of the more common times for children to become constipated is when they’re switching from an all-liquid diet to one that includes solid foods.
• Changes in routine. Any changes in your child’s routine — such as travel, hot weather or stress — can affect bowel function. Children are also more likely to experience constipation when they first start school outside of the home.
• Medications. Certain antidepressants and various other drugs can contribute to constipation.
• Cow’s milk allergy. An allergy to cow’s milk or consuming too many dairy products (cheese and cow’s milk) sometimes leads to constipation.
• Family history. Children who have family members who have experienced constipation are more likely to develop constipation. This may be due to shared genetic or environmental factors.
• Medical conditions. Rarely, constipation in children indicates an anatomic malformation, a metabolic or digestive system problem, or another underlying condition.

Risk factors

Constipation in children is more likely to affect kids who:

• Are sedentary
• Don’t eat enough fiber
• Don’t drink enough fluids
• Take certain medications, including some antidepressants
• Have a medical condition affecting the anus or rectum
• Have a neurological disorder

Complications

Although constipation in children can be uncomfortable, it usually isn’t serious. If constipation becomes chronic, however, complications may include:

• Painful breaks in the skin around the anus (anal fissures)
• Rectal prolapse, when the rectum comes out of the anus
• Stool withholding
• Avoiding bowel movements because of pain, which causes impacted stool to collect in the colon and rectum and leak out (encopresis)

Prevention

To help prevent constipation in children:

• Offer your child high-fiber foods. A diet rich in fiber can help your child’s body form soft, bulky stool. Serve your child more high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole-grain cereals and breads. If your child isn’t used to a high-fiber diet, start by adding just several grams of fiber a day to prevent gas and bloating.

  The recommended intake for dietary fiber is 14 grams for every 1,000 calories in your child’s diet.

  For younger children, this translates to an intake of about 20 grams of dietary fiber a day. For adolescent girls and young women, it’s 29 grams a day. And for adolescent boys and young men, it’s 38 grams a day.

• Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids. Water is often the best.
• Promote physical activity. Regular physical activity helps stimulate normal bowel function.
• Create a toilet routine. Regularly set aside time after meals for your child to use the toilet. If necessary, provide a footstool so that your child is comfortable sitting on the toilet and has enough leverage to release a stool.
• Remind your child to heed nature’s call. Some children get so wrapped up in play that they ignore the urge to have a bowel movement. If such delays occur often, they can contribute to constipation.
• Be supportive. Reward your child’s efforts, not results. Give children small rewards for trying to move their bowels. Possible rewards include stickers or a special book or game that’s only available after (or possibly during) toilet time. And don’t punish a child who has soiled his or her underwear.
• Review medications. If your child is taking a medication that causes constipation, ask his or her doctor about other options.

Sept. 18, 2021

Show references

1. McInerny TK, et al., eds. Constipation. In: American Academy of Pediatrics Textbook of Pediatric Care. 2nd ed. Elk Grove Village, Ill.: American Academy of Pediatrics; 2017. https://www.ebscohost.com/ebooks. Accessed May 31, 2019.
2. Van Mill MJ, et al. Controversies in the management of functional constipation in children. Current Gastroenterology Reports. 2019;21:23.
3. Constipation in children. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation-children/all-content. Accessed May 31, 2019.
4. Wyllie R, et al., eds. Functional constipation and incontinence. In: Pediatric Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 31, 2019.
5. Sood MR. Functional constipation in infants and children: Clinical features and differential diagnosis. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 31, 2019.
6. Constipation in children. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/symptoms-in-infants-and-children/constipation-in-children?query=constipation in children#. Accessed May 31, 2019.
7. Sood MR. Recent-onset constipation in infants and children. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 31, 2019.
8. Ferri FF. Constipation. In: Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2019. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2019. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed June 3, 2019.
9. Rakel D, ed. Recurring abdominal pain in pediatrics. In: Integrative Medicine. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed June 3, 2019.
10. 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines. Accessed May 31, 2019.
11. Kashyap PC (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 7, 2019.

Chronic Constipation in Your Child

Please note: This information was current at the time of publication. But medical information is always changing, and some information given here may be out of date. For regularly updated information on a variety of health topics, please visit familydoctor.org, the AAFP patient education website.

Information from Your Family Doctor

Am Fam Physician.  2006 Feb 1;73(3):479-480.

 
See related article on constipation.

What is constipation?

Constipation is when bowel movements happen less often than every two days.

Constipation also can mean that stools are hard or painful to pass, even when bowel movements happen more often than every two days.

Constipation is called “chronic” if it is present for two weeks or more.

How common is chronic constipation?

Chronic constipation happens in up to 4 percent of preschool-age children and 2 percent of school-age children. In most children, constipation is not caused by a serious medical condition.

Why does my child have constipation?

When constipation happens because of a change in normal bowel function, this is called “functional constipation.”

These children have pain with every bowel movement. They often want to avoid passing another painful stool, so they resist the urge to have a bowel movement. They may squeeze their buttocks together and stand very straight until the urge to have a bowel movement goes away.

If children keep trying to avoid bowel movements, stool builds up in their lower bowel. The stool becomes larger and harder. Passage of the stool can tear the anus (the rectal opening). This causes pain and makes the children want to avoid having bowel movements even more.

Over time, the muscles and nerves of the bowel change in these children. The lower bowel stretches because of the amount of stool stored in it.

An impaction (hard stool lump) may build up in the lower bowel. Liquid stool may leak around the impaction and into the child’s underwear. Children with impaction cannot keep this from happening.

What else causes constipation?

Diet can be an important cause of chronic constipation. Children can become constipated if they do not eat enough high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Constipation also can happen when children do not drink enough liquids.

Some children who drink a lot of milk become constipated.

Certain medicines can cause constipation.

How can the doctor tell if my child has constipation?

The pattern of your child’s bowel movements may show that he or she has constipation. You can help the doctor by keeping a day-by-day list of your child’s bowel movements.

It also is important to note unusual changes in your child’s stools or behavior. Here are some things to watch for:

• Stools that are large in diameter

• Stools that are very hard

• Small amounts of bright red blood on the toilet tissue after your child has a bowel movement

• Stomach pain and bloating

• Loss of appetite

• Crying or screaming during bowel movements

• Avoiding the toilet or resisting toilet training

The doctor also will do a physical exam. This may include an exam of your child’s rectum. The doctor also may order an x-ray of your child’s abdomen (stomach).

How is chronic constipation treated?

Your child’s bowels need to be cleaned out. This can be done with enemas or oral medicines.

After the cleanout, your child may need to take medicine every day. The medicine helps make your child’s stool soft, so that bowel movements do not hurt.

When your child is having three or more soft stools per week with no soiling, the medicine is decreased slowly. After some time, your child may not have to take any medicine.

Your doctor may ask that you limit your child’s milk intake to 2 to 3 cups a day.

The doctor may ask you to add more fiber and liquid to your child’s diet.

A patient information handout called “Help for Your Child’s Constipation” gives more information on what you can do if your child has chronic constipation.

When will my child be better?

Chronic constipation takes time to develop. It also takes time to treat.

Even with the best treatment, chronic constipation can come back. Sometimes, constipation only partly improves, and children may never have daily, soft bowel movements.

Scientists claim fat-free milk could relieve constipation

Writing in Nutrition​ a group of Turkish scientists investigated the effects of fat-free milk supplementation on constipation and levels of motilin and ghrelin – both of which affect intestinal mobility.

Studies have suggested that excessive milk consumption leads to constipation as unabsorbed fatty acids left in the intestines bind to calcium on the intestinal lumen, forming soaps.

But the scientists behind this latest study claim that fat-free milk may have the opposite effect, actually helping to relieve constipation.

Method ​

In the research, individuals with constipation were supplemented with between 400 ml and 800 ml of fat-free milk daily, according to the severity of their cases.

Meanwhile, healthy control subjects were administered 400 ml of fat-free milk, which was followed a month later by of 400 ml of whole milk for 3 days.

Blood samples were collected from the subjects before and after milk supplementation for hormone analyses. Motilin and acylated and des-acylated ghrelin were quantified with ELIS assay.

Results​

In the results, the scientist found that fat-free milk supplementation resulted in an increase in regularity and an improvement in stool softness among chronic constipation patients.

Researchers also found that serum motilin and des-acylated ghrelin hormone levels were increased by a statistically significant amount after fat-free milk supplementation. As these are peptide hormones that stimulate intestinal mobility, the scientists said they may play a role in reducing the severity of constipation or giving total relief from the problem.

Concluding the research, the scientists said: “While confirmation of these results by independent laboratories using a greater number of subjects remains of considerable importance, we conclude that fat-free milk supplementation can help solve constipation. ”​

Source: Nutrition
doi:10.1016/j.nut.2009.11.023
Fat-free milk as a therapeutic approach for constipation and the effect on serum motilin and ghrelin levels​
Authors: S. Aydin, E. Donder, O.K. Akin, F. Sahpaz, Y. Kendir, M. M. Alnema

6 Foods That Can Cause Constipation – Constipation

Constipation is a tricky problem. You have to find the right balance of nutrients and water in order to relieve and prevent future problems. Unfortunately, there may be foods you are currently eating that could be contributing to the problem. Check out this list of constipating foods to remove these culprits from your diet.

Dairy

Certain types of diary products can slow down digestion and get you feeling backed up quickly. High-fat dairy like whole milk, cheese and ice cream are a few of the leading culprits. This is because of the high fat, sugar and sodium content of many of these foods. This problem is often seen in children who are drinking whole milk frequently. If you love your dairy but not the nasty side effects then stick with low-fat dairy and try to find probiotic-rich sources, which can be soothing to the gut.

High-Fat Foods

Fat is known for it satiating power. That is because fat takes more time to digest and slows down the emptying in the stomach. When healthy fats are consumed in proper amounts this can be great for the body, but when excessive amounts of unhealthy fats sneak into the diet you can be backed up before you know it. To avoid this problem, it is best to avoid fried foods, greasy chips or red meats in favor of healthy fats like olive oil or avocado.

Refined Carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates like candy, white breads, cakes, chips and others can all slow down movement through the digestive tract. This is because, while high in fat and calories, these foods often lack fluid and fiber. This combo is a recipe for constipation. If you are craving something sweet try fresh berries and Greek yogurt. The combo of protein, fiber and probiotics is soothing to the gut.

Convenience Foods

For better, and mostly for worse, convenience foods have become a staple in most American diets. Whether this is the packaged quick grabs at the grocery store, frozen meals or fast foods- all have the potential to wreak havoc on your gut. The problem with most convenience foods is that they are high in fat, sugar and salt. All of which can slow down digestion. These types of foods also tend to be low in digestion aids like fiber.

Try to eliminate convenience foods and stick to the outer edge of the grocery store as much as possible. The outer edge of most stores is where you’ll find most of the fresh, whole foods that are good for the gut.

Bananas

Bananas, specifically greener ones, have long been known for their constipating powers. As part of the B.R.A.T (banana, rice, applesauce and toast) diet it is often used to relieve diarrhea. If you love bananas but not the constipation that comes with them, stick to very ripe bananas. They are not as constipating as greener versions.

Red Meats

A few servings of red meat per week combined with inadequate fiber and water intake can lead to constipation quickly. This is because of the high-fat content of red meat and the tendency for it to take the place of healthier options. Choosing low-fat red meats, eating it only once per week and combining it with fiber-rich foods like non starchy veggies can help prevent getting backed up.

If you avoid foods that cause constipation while focusing on increasing fluids and fiber your gut will thank you.

Jennifer has a bachelor’s degree in dietetics as well as graduate work in public health and nutrition. She has worked with families dealing with digestive disease, asthma and food allergies for the past 12 years. Jennifer also serves the Board of Directors for Pediatric Adolescent Gastroesophageal Reflux Association (PAGER).

Meet Our Writer

Jennifer Mitchell Wilson

Jennifer Mitchell Wilson is a dietitian and mother of three girls. Two of her children have dealt with acid reflux disease, food allergies, migraines, and asthma. She has a Bachelor of Science in dietetics from Harding University and has done graduate work in public health and nutrition through Eastern Kentucky University. In addition to writing for HealthCentral, she does patient consults and serves on the Board of Directors for the Pediatric Adolescent Gastroesophageal Reflux Association.

Resolving Toddler Constipation: Do’s and Don’ts

It’s a common toilet-training roadblock: children have no trouble peeing in the potty, but when it comes to poop, well, that’s a different obstacle. Some kids are so averse to pooping on the potty they hold bowel movements, which can cause chronic and sometimes severe constipation.

Over time, hard stools can cause hemorrhoids or small tears in the anus (fissures). Not surprisingly, this makes the child even more afraid to poop, which leads to more toilet trouble and a maddening cycle of pain and frustration all around.

If this is the story in your house, take heart: Children rarely hold their bowel movements just to be difficult. Instead, they’re potty-averse because they’re used to doing their business on the run (in a diaper) or they can’t wrap their minds around the concept of letting their poop loose. Whatever the reason, these basic dos and don’ts can help pave the way toward successful (and seamless) pooping:

DO:

1. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids. Stick to water or water with just a splash of fruit juice. Milk can be constipating for some kids.
2. Get your child moving. Exercise stimulates digestion and helps prevent constipation.
3. Stock up on fiber-rich foods. Foods high in fiber and whole grains help keep the bowel happy by moving food through the digestive tract at a steady pace. So make sure your child noshes on fiber-rich fruits (apples and pears are great options), vegetables (especially raw) and whole grains (such as oats, millet and barley).
4. Institute some sort of reward system. A small non-food reward for pooping on the potty, such as stickers or the promise of a special outing, typically boasts big payoffs. No matter which tangible reward you choose, make sure to praise your child wildly when the deed is done. Call grandma and grandpa. Call daddy or mommy at work. Make it a big deal so he (or she) will want to repeat the process.
5. Use petroleum jelly. If your child is constipated, apply a bit of Vaseline or petroleum jelly around the anus. Not only will lubrication make for a smoother passage, the extra stimulation may provoke a bowel movement. And if the constipation has led to fissures (cracks in the skin in and around the anus) dab some diaper cream on them to help the healing process.

DON’T

1. Get angry. Scolding your child or making him feel shame will only create a power struggle — one that kids usually win. Remember he’s not avoiding the potty to make you angry. They’re trying to wrap their minds (and bodies) around a complex process. If your child poops in his pants, calmly lead him to the bathroom, flush the loaded contents and explain that poop goes in the potty.
2. Make your child sit on the potty until she poops. Bowel movements come when the body is ready. Rather than sitting your child on the toilet and forcing them to “try,” take note of the first signs your child makes before she poops. Does she pause during an activity, make a funny face, walk over to a different part of the room? If you notice these pre-pooping signals, you can rush your child to the toilet (or at least to the bathroom) before the bowel movement occurs.
3. Let your child strain. While there’s nothing wrong with a little pushing during a bowel movement, grunting and forcing out poop could spell trouble (both in terms of constipation and anal fissure and hemorrhoids). Instead of forcing it, have your child drink a tall glass of water and eat a piece of bowel-friendly fruit (peaches, pears or prunes!) and then try again about 30 minutes later.
4. Let your child load up on constipating foods. Sugar and refined carbohydrates (like white bread, pasta and rice) are known toddler constipation culprits. Bananas and dairy, too, may lead to toilet troubles.
5. Fret. Nearly every child masters the art of pooping on the potty. If your child is taking his time, encourage him with baby steps. Let him poop in his diaper, but lead him to the bathroom when he has a bowel movement. Once your kid gets used to pooping in his diaper in the bathroom, have him sit on the potty with a loosely fastened diaper. And finally, ditch the diaper altogether and do a happy dance when he lets the poop fall in the toilet.

Still not successful? It might be time to visit the pediatrician for assistance. A stool softener or laxative may be the answer to toddler constipation, but these should never be given to a child without a doctor’s recommendation. Once your child has regular, soft, formed stools, she’ll gain the confidence that she can have a bowel movement without pain.

To find a pediatrician or make an appointment, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).

Tags: Dr. Stacy Leatherwood Cannon, Pediatrics

Constipation And Bottle Feeding | Feeding Your Baby

How often should formula-fed babies poo?

Whilst it might take time to get used to your baby’s bowel movements, generally if your baby is under 8 weeks old and has not done a poo for 2 to 3 days, talk to your midwife, health visitor or GP. At this stage, your baby should be gaining weight and have plenty of wet and dirty nappies.

Too much formula (adding more milk powder than recommended on the packet) can make your baby constipated and leave them dehydrated because the formula is too thick.

Possible causes of constipation

Change in diet

It’s quite common for your baby to become constipated when they start having first infant formula (which is harder to digest than breast milk) or eating processed foods. This is because their body is learning how to cope with digesting new things. When using formula, always use the amount of powder recommended on the packaging. Using too much powder can make your baby constipated and may cause dehydration.

Dehydration

Constipation can be caused by a lack of fluids. There are various reasons why your baby may not be getting enough fluids – they may be teething and finding it uncomfortable, it could be down to illness (such as a cold, a throat or ear infection), or if they are older, not drinking enough fluids with their food. Lack of fluids can make your baby’s poo harder and more difficult to push out.

Lack of fibre

In older babies, it can also be caused by not getting enough fibre (such as fruit, vegetables and cereals) in their diet. For advice on which foods to include in your child’s diet, have a look at our Guide to what to feed your baby.

Tips on treating constipation

Here are some tips on helping relieve constipation at home:

• lie your baby down and gently move their legs like they’re riding a bicycle – this can help get things moving.
• if your baby is happy lying down, give them a gentle tummy massage
• if your baby is bottle fed try giving them extra water between some feeds
• if your baby is on solids, make sure they are getting enough fibre – apples, pears and prunes are particularly good for constipation

It may take a few days to get things moving again, but if things do not improve, speak to your health visitor or GP. Your GP may prescribe a laxative or want to double check that it’s not being caused by any underlying medical conditions.

Foods That Make You Poop

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No one likes getting backed up, especially right before—or worse, during—a run. You’re distracted; you feel heavier; and everything from mood to energy levels can suffer. Molly Morgan, R.D., a registered dietitian and nutritionist and author of Drink Your Way to Gut Health recommends holding off on that “quick fix” fiber supplement that promises to make you poop instantly, and focusing on food instead. Here are ten foods that help make you poop.

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1

Raspberries

Raspberries are fiber rock stars with 8 grams per cup—that’s double the fiber of strawberries. “Fiber increases the bulk of your stool to help food move smoothly through the digestive system; plus, it feeds good bacteria in the gut for optimal digestion,” says Erica Sonnenburg, Ph.D., a senior research scientist in the department of microbiology and immunology at Stanford University School of Medicine and coauthor of The Good Gut. Top your morning oatmeal or yogurt with raspberries or pop ‘em plain as a snack. Add raspberries to a smoothie or try this delicious berry blast recipe.

2

Oranges

This citrus powerhouse is a triple threat: Oranges have lots of stool-softening vitamin C, fiber to keep things moving, and naringenin, a flavonoid that researchers found can work like a laxative. Pack an orange as a portable snack or top your salad with orange segments.

3

Water

“Staying hydrated is essential to helping things move,” Morgan says. Without ample h3O, stool can’t soften and move smoothly through the digestive tract. No wonder dehydration is a common cause of constipation. Drink up: Sip straight water, and add lemon or cucumber slices for extra flavor.

4

Kefir

The fermented dairy drink is packed with probiotics, “good” bacteria vital to gut health. And kefir has 10 times more strains of bacteria than yogurt does, says Sonnenburg: “The greater diversity improves the chance that some of these microbes will be beneficial to your particular gut microbiota,” she adds. What’s more, British researchers found that probiotics can ease constipation, soften stool, and even increase “number two” frequency. Drink kefir on its own or add it to smoothies.

5

Almonds

Almonds are loaded with heart-healthy fats, protein, and fiber, but it’s the high magnesium content that has our intestines excited. “Magnesium neutralizes stomach acid and moves stools through the intestines,” Morgan says. And just a small handful (1 ounce) contains 25 percent of your daily dose. Almonds make the perfect portable snack, or you can add almond flour to baked goods and smoothies.

RELATED: Why You Need Protein to Power Your Runs

6

Black Beans

Just 1 cup of black beans has a whopping 15 grams of fiber (women need 25 grams a day), as well as magnesium and potassium for a smoother-running digestive system. Add to salads, salsas, and soups or sauté with greens.

[Build a killer midsection in the kitchen for effortless miles on the road with Eat for Abs.]

7

Prunes

The age-old constipation cure is not only high in fiber (6 grams per half cup), but prunes also contain dihydroxyphenyl isatin, a natural compound that stimulates the bowel, as well as sorbitol, a sugar that has a laxative effect. Plus, prunes have double the potassium of bananas. Not consuming enough potassium can cause constipation and fatigue. Chop ‘em up and add to salads, oatmeal, and yogurt parfaits.

8

Leafy Greens

Spinach, Swiss chard, and kale are packed with nutrients that have poop powers including fiber (1 cup of Swiss chard has 4 grams of fiber), magnesium to help the colon contract, and potassium, which helps regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions. Add any of these 10 leafy greens to salads, layer into sandwiches, or sauté in olive oil with garlic.

9

Wheat Bran

It should be no surprise that studies show wheat bran can relieve constipation and improve digestion. The outer layer of the wheat kernel is a fiber force with a whopping 25 grams per cup. Sprinkle it over your oatmeal, eat a bowl of bran cereal, or whip up a batch of bran muffins.

10

Coffee

And if all these don’t do it for you, there’s always the reliable morning cup of joe. But not to worry if you’re not a fan of the buzz—it’s not just the caffeinated stuff that works. One study found that coffee—including decaf—means a bathroom visit for about 30 percent of people. Experts believe coffee’s acidity is key, notably its chlorogenic acid, a compound that gives java the bitter flavor. Warm liquids can give your colon a jump-start, too, so tea or even warm water with lemon can work as well.

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90,000 Constipation in children. Prevention. Diet therapy

21.06.2019

Constipation is widespread among both adults and children (5-30% depending on diagnostic criteria). Symptoms become chronic in more than 30% of patients, cause not only discomfort and pain to the child himself, but also disrupt the quality of life of his family.

Constipation is a condition manifested by an increase in the intervals between bowel movements (compared to the individual norm) or systematically delayed, difficult and / or insufficient bowel movement.Constipation also includes stool with “gruel”, but after there was no bowel movement for up to 3 days.

Constipation can be associated with functional or organic causes (abnormalities, inflammation). In children, in 90-95%, constipation is functional. The peak incidence of functional constipation occurs at 2-4 years, when the child begins to potty / toilet train.

The main causes of functional constipation

• Pain
• Fever
• Dehydration
• Incorrect diet for a nursing mother
• Insufficient drinking regime of a child with artificial feeding
• Insufficient drinking regime of a breastfed child with the introduction of complementary foods
• Early transfer of a child to artificial feeding
• Quick transfer of the baby from one formula to another (less than 7 days)
• Poor nutrition of the child (for a long time the child receives food with a large amount of proteins, fats and insufficient dietary fiber, abuse of drinks containing a large amount of astringent substances – tea, coffee, cocoa)
• Excessive use of children’s hygiene products or the development of an allergic reaction of the skin of the perianal region
• Consequences of perinatal damage to the nervous system
• Rickets, vitamin D deficiency
• Anemia
• Thyroid dysfunction (failure – hypothyroidism)
• Food allergy, primarily cow’s milk protein allergy
• Forced potty training, a period of adaptation to new conditions (nursery, kindergarten)
• Physical inactivity – sedentary lifestyle
• Mental trauma or stress
• Systematic suppression of the urge to empty the bowels, associated, for example, with the start of attending kindergarten, school, etc.p.
• Taking some drugs
• Constipation in family members

Frequency of defecations in children of different ages

In addition to stool frequency, attention should be paid to its nature.For a more objective assessment, the “Bristol scale of feces forms” is convenient, since it is the form of feces, and not the frequency of stools, that corresponds to the time of intestinal transit to a greater extent.

Bristol Feces Scale

In accordance with this scale, 3 and 4 the form of feces is regarded as normal, and 1 and 2 indicate delayed transit (constipation). Quite often, in practice, there are situations when a child has a defecation frequency within the normal range, but the stool is dense, fragmented, in a meager amount.These signs indicate incomplete bowel movement and are considered constipation manifestations.

In consistency, in newborns and infants, the stool should be mushy. From 6 months to 1.5 – 2 years, feces can be either formalized or mushy. From the age of two, the chair should be decorated.

Signs and symptoms of constipation

• abdominal pain, often bursting, aching, sometimes colicky
• bloating
• changing the shape and consistency of the chair
• excessive flatulence
• unpleasant smell of gas and stool
• there may be pain during bowel movements
• straining during bowel movements
• there may be blood in the stool – on the surface of feces or in the form of traces on a napkin (indicates an anal fissure)

If you do not eliminate constipation and do not establish a bowel movement, then there is a risk of coprostasis (the formation of fecal stones) and fecal intoxication:

• loss of appetite
• lack of energy
• general malaise
• depression, irritability
• nausea, vomiting
• skin symptoms – dryness, rash, peeling
• fecal incontinence, spotting stool
• retention and incontinence of urine due to pressure from the overflowing intestine on the bladder
• bleeding from cracks, hemorrhoids

Constipation treatment includes the following goals:

1.Normalization of stool consistency (soft, painless stools)

2. Regularity of bowel movements (prevention of re-accumulation of feces)

Constipation treatment is a sequential, complex, individualized process and consists of several stages:

• child and parent education
• correction of nutrition and drinking regime
• elimination of existing coprostasis with medication
• maintenance therapy

It is necessary to exclude the factors provoking and contributing to constipation (normalization of motor and nutritional regimen, discontinuation of medications that can cause constipation, identification of a food allergen, exclusion or confirmation of neuromuscular disease, celiac disease, etc.).NS.).

Lifestyle normalization includes:

• conditioned reflex development
• active lifestyle
• gymnastics
• light abdominal massage skills training
• for small children – laying out on the stomach, bending the legs towards the stomach.

Education is the first step in the treatment of functional constipation.It must be remembered that episodes of calamification and encopresis (fecal incontinence) are not arbitrary and should not be blamed on the child, who may already be frightened and disoriented. In some cases, when the intra-family situation is difficult, the help of a family psychologist may be needed.

It is important to understand that the treatment of functional constipation can be lengthy, based on trust in the doctor, partnership and requires patience. Modern laxatives allowed in children will not make the intestines “lazy”, will not cause “addiction”, they enter the bloodstream in minimal amounts or are not absorbed at all and are safe when taken for a long time.

Correction of the behavior of a child with constipation is based on the development of a toilet visit regime in order to achieve regular bowel movements. Defecation should be at the same time every time. The urge to defecate is based on the gastrocecal reflex, which manifests itself in the morning 1 hour after eating. A child with constipation needs to spend 3-10 minutes in the toilet (depending on age). It is necessary to put the child on the potty or offer to visit the toilet after each meal.

A prerequisite for effective bowel movements is to provide good support for the legs (a low bench on which the child can place their feet), which contributes to an increase in intra-abdominal pressure.

If defecation fails, the child should never be punished, and vice versa. The daily frequency of bowel movements can be recorded in a diary, which can be reviewed during routine visits to the doctor.

Treatment of constipation should begin with lifestyle changes, which include adjustments in diet, drinking regimen and physical activity.

Calculation of fluid volume for healthy children

Children under 1 year old should drink at least 100 ml of water per day.

For healthy children weighing from 10 to 20 kg the need for water is calculated by the formula:

100 ml (volume of water for children under 1 year old) + 50 ml for each kg with a body weight over 10 kg.

For example, with a mass of 12 kg: 100 ml + 2 x 50 ml = 200 ml.

A child weighing 20 kg should drink water: 100 ml + 50 x 10 = 600 ml

For children weighing over 20 kg the following formula is proposed for calculating:

600 ml (volume of water for a child weighing 20 kg) + 20 ml for each kg with a weight over 20 kg.

For children over 3-5 years old you can use the calculation of the amount of water: 30 ml / kg mass

Principles of Diet Therapy for Constipation:

• satisfaction of physical needs for nutrients and energy
• elimination of excessive consumption of proteins and fats, which can inhibit intestinal motility
• dietary fiber fortification
• normalization of intestinal microflora with pro- and prebiotics

If the child is breastfed, then the mother’s nutrition is corrected (restriction of foods that contribute to gas formation).With artificial feeding, special mixtures are shown. In case of constipation associated with an allergy to cow’s milk protein, medicinal mixtures are prescribed if the child is artificially fed. If the baby is breastfed, cow’s milk and products based on it are completely excluded from the mother’s diet.

After the introduction of “thick” complementary foods – boiled water is necessary for all children, regardless of the type of feeding.

For older children, it is recommended to eat foods rich in plant fiber.We do not recommend “greasy food”, puree, “snacks”, “food on the go”. Food should be crumbly, meat / poultry / fish – “piece”. A “bulky” breakfast is required to stimulate the “gastrocecal reflex”.

The main source of coarse fiber vegetable fiber, which contains a large amount of dietary fiber, is cereal bran, rye bread, as well as a number of vegetables and fruits. According to the principles of evidence-based medicine, statistically significant increase in stool frequency and improvement in stool consistency was demonstrated with the use of fiber compared to placebo.

Bran, as the main source of vegetable fiber, is recommended to be added to the second and third courses, after pouring it with boiling water and settling for 20 minutes. Bran can also be used between meals with plenty of liquid. For school-age children, the total amount of liquid when taking bran should be at least 1.5-2 liters per day, otherwise they perform mainly the role of sorbents, absorbing liquid from the intestines, thereby increasing constipation.The dose is selected individually, it is recommended to start with 1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day, with a gradual increase to 40 g per day. When the effect is achieved, the dose is reduced and limited to one dose.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (2009) recommends a fiber intake of 0.5 g / kg / day (maximum 35 g / day) for all children. Fiber intakes below the minimum recommended value have been shown to be a risk factor for chronic constipation in children.

However, long-term intake of a large amount of plant fiber due to fermentation by the intestinal microflora is naturally accompanied by bloating and flatulence.

Children with constipation are shown taking cool liquids on an empty stomach (drinking and mineral water, juice, compotes, kvass); honey, xylitol or sorbitol may be added to enhance the laxative effect. It is very beneficial for the intestines to increase the consumption of juices containing sorbitol / sorbitol, such as juice from plums, pears, apricots, peaches and apples,

In case of “sluggish” bowel work (hypomotor constipation), cool mineral water of medium and high mineralization is used, such as Essentuki 17, Batalinskaya, Arzni, Donat Magniya, etc. with spastic constipation (hypermotor constipation, stool shape is usually type 1) – warm and low mineralization (Essentuki 4).Calculation of mineral water – 3-5 ml / kg per day.

You should limit milk in its pure form and in dishes, as flatulence may occur with the appearance or intensification of abdominal pain. It is better to replace whole milk with sour milk products – kefir, acidophilus, curdled milk, yoghurts, etc.

The diet of children with constipation includes dishes rich in vegetable fiber – salads from fresh vegetables, greens 2-3 rubles per day, baked apples, stewed vegetables, diluted vegetable and fruit juices with pulp.Food is prepared mainly in a non-crushed form, steamed or boiled in water.

It is preferable to take raw vegetables and fruits (in the absence of contraindications). Tomatoes, squash, pumpkin, carrots, beets, leafy lettuce, cauliflower, apples are especially recommended. Dried fruits (prunes, dried apricots, figs) are given soaked and as part of cooked dishes. White cabbage, young green beans, green peas are allowed if tolerated.It is good to add parsley, dill, celery to various dishes and salads.

If, after reading the article, you still have questions or you do not understand how to apply the recommendations in your particular case, we invite you and your child for an examination by a pediatric gastroenterologist at the Children’s Children’s Center. For the convenience of parents, you can make an appointment with a pediatric gastroenterologist at the Pediatric Diagnostic Center on weekdays and Saturdays.
We will be happy to help!

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90,000 Reviews Fitomucil norms, prices, instructions for use

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• Kristina
  2021-08-05 01:04

  Efficiency is high, the effect is felt from the first day of administration.I drank 3 sachets on the first day – the next morning I went to the toilet normally. At the same time, before that I had a very long constipation. I will take a course to improve the work of the intestines. One-time, too, is possible, of course, but better with a course, all the same phytomucil is natural and does not cause addiction.

• Elvira
  2021-04-03 15:53

  Phytomucil norms are my obligatory remedy in a travel medicine cabinet, it acts gently and after taking it it is not scary to leave the toilet.Intestinal cleansing always occurs gently, and on days 2-3 everything was rearranged in such a way that I began to go to the toilet in the morning, at about the same time. It feels like there is not even seething in the stomach from it, complete calm, I think this is because there is no damn senna in the composition, and usually it is shoved into all plant-based laxatives. And due to its absence, phytomucil is designed for such a long course, during this time the intestinal function is completely normalized, but addiction does not arise, and after the cancellation of the intake, everything works stably for me.

• Inna
  2021-02-08 21:04

  An excellent soft remedy for restoring normal stool, after taking I go to the toilet as usual, not a hint of diarrhea. It acts quite quickly and it is easy to dilute it, just mix it with water and drink it.

• Alyona
  2020-12-07 21:59

  I have chronic constipation, so I am looking for the formulations so that there is no senna, initially it hooked phytomucil, but in the end now I buy only it, because in addition to the safe composition, it also acts painlessly, this is the softest that I have tried for constipation.

• Violetta
  2020-10-03 03:13

  This is the only tool that I am not afraid to use even on business trips, no incidents happen to it, it works predictably, moreover, thanks to phytomucil, I now know exactly what time my intestines are cleared, my intestines have never worked so steadily! Two weeks of the course passed without any problems at all.

• Margot
  2020-09-17 02:43

  I highly recommend it for chronic constipation, the composition is absolutely safe and it acts very mildly! It’s even difficult for me to call it a laxative simply because there is no weakness in the intestines from it, I can even go for a walk after taking it without fear that I will have to rush to the nearest toilet, it works so softly, after it I want to go to the toilet naturally, as usual and the stool is normal !

• Evgeniya
  2020-08-24 14:35

  Improves bowel function without problems.I had problems with stool, I bought it at the pharmacy on the recommendation of a pharmacist. The problem was solved in just a few days. There is always a first-aid kit at home, it is convenient that suits all family members. There is another great remedy called fibraxin. It also helps with the work of the gastrointestinal tract, with constipation, flatulence, and is also suitable for everyone. It is still good to drink it during diets, it really helps to dull appetite. It is very convenient when there is not enough willpower.

• Shailene
  2020-07-14 00:38

  I took phytomucil norms two times and both times it gave a very mild effect! This is a surprise for me! Absolutely painless cleansing, then I just realized that this is one of the few remedies without Senna, therefore it is so mild.

• Ksyunya
  2020-05-07 02:10

  Phytomucil norms have proven to be very effective. For the last six months I had constipation very frequent, I drank laxatives, they helped only during the intake, then it started again … But phytomucil drank a course for 1 month and that’s it, for about a month there are no problems with the intestines, I go to the toilet stably, there is no bloating, pain and this despite the fact that I now eat at random….
  The remedy is quite effective, I think I will take the course in the summer in order to support the intestines. There is still no addiction to phytomucil, so you can use it and not be afraid.

• I stopped drinking phytomucil norms a month ago, while there is no constipation, I can conclude that the effectiveness is good. Not only weakens, but restores bowel function

• Maria Valyaeva
  2019-10-10 00:04

  An excellent product! Drank 2 weeks and constipation never comes back

• Lyudmilochka
  2019-09-02 14:58

  Phytomucil Norm is a natural and effective remedy for normalizing intestinal function, you can not be afraid of allergies in the composition of only the plum and husk of psyllium seeds.The main thing is to drink plenty of water and the effect will not be long in coming. At the same time, it does not act aggressively, does not at all look like a laxative. No diarrhea, no pain or bloating. Dietary fiber attracts water and thus activates the intestines. I took it during pregnancy and there were no complications. I also took it several times during GV, the quality of milk did not deteriorate from this. By the way, after stopping the application, the problem does not return, it does not cause addiction.

• Julia Astrova
  2019-08-04 19:23

  for constipation phytomucil norms works great, I take it for 2 weeks, no addiction!

• Tatiana
  2019-07-09 13:19

  phytomucil forte saved me, took me in case of poisoning, quickly put me on my feet and returned to working condition) and not as nasty as enterosgel)))

• Stas
  2019-07-02 21:37

  I strongly advise against chronic constipation, there is no addiction, I drink for the second month, the intestines are almost back to normal

• Larissa
  2019-06-16 13:41

  An excellent remedy for chronic constipation, you can take it for a month or two and there is no addiction! Phytomucil is a discovery of my whole life for me)

• Tasya
  2019-05-17 13:11

  phytomucil norm is the best thing that happened to my intestines, I did not think that long-term use of this drug will relieve chronic constipation… I didn’t believe at all that something would help me ** sorry ok, but now there are no problems)) it’s great that I bought it

• Lyudok
  2019-05-09 09:55

  I took this drug during pregnancy, the doctor prescribed it. if it is possible for pregnant women, then I can imagine how natural and safe it is… we still use it as a family, but not often, but when we need only

• Kazunina Angelina
  2019-04-07 11:31

  A good remedy, it didn’t cause bloating, but on the contrary removed it and after a day there were no problems with the intestines at all.It is important to me that this is a 100% natural remedy, which means that it will not harm either me or my future children …

• Irina Rogina
  2018-12-05 10:10

  I did not like the action of Phytomucil. Apparently, my body does not perceive plantain seeds.Severe distension of the intestines and flatulence caused. No further progress was made. It is very difficult to endure constipation and also bloating, so I refused further admission. Moved to Exportal. The action is also not instantaneous, but without gas formation, and it turns out to be as natural as possible to go to the toilet.

• Valentin Ivanov
  2017-02-27 11:51

  All diseases in our country begin with the phrase “ate something,” and so it is with me.Diarrhea tortured me, which I just didn’t try: vodka with pepper, and activated carbon, and imodium, nothing helped, I didn’t want to go to the hospital. The pharmacy advised Phytomucil powders – an American drug, and the price is good. It helped literally the very next day. Now there are no repetitions for half a month.

• Milla
  2017-02-27 11:31

  Constant constipation and abdominal pain began to bother me.I decided to take Fitomucil, a friend advised me to take it, since I recently gave birth to a child and he approached her. She diluted the bag with kefir. I was afraid that an exacerbation would begin again after I quit the drug, but this did not happen. The price is expensive for six days of admission, but I would still buy and drink again.

• Marina
  2017-02-27 11:14

  I am often visited by delicate problems with the work of the intestines and Fmtomucil always comes to the rescue.Most of all, I liked the medicine in the sachet – it is convenient to take with you on the road, it is convenient to prepare, it takes up very little space. The taste of the prepared drink is absolutely tolerant, I especially liked to prepare it with the addition of jam. The drug does not cause unpleasant side effects and is inexpensive.

• Lukina Nina Gennadievna
  2017-02-27 11:13

  I am ashamed to say how I gave birth, for several years now I have been suffering from constipation.I go to the toilet as if it were hard labor. That just didn’t try and grandma’s means, and recommendations of the Internet, and advice of friends. She was embarrassed to go to the hospital, like a trifle. And recently, at the medical examination, she complained to the doctor. She offered to drink Fitomucil. The powder is inexpensive and the composition is normal: plum fruits, plantain seeds and something else useful there. The main thing is that my chair has become normal.

• Sergey
  2017-02-27 11:08

  My intestines often hurt, I decided to try Phytomucil norms and the price was fine too.This is the first time I’ve seen such a remedy based on plantain seeds. The result is excellent, immediately weakens and causes a pleasant sensation in the stomach. I drank the mixture immediately after mixing, I did not notice any discomfort. It became easier to go to the toilet, it is suitable for complex treatment of problems.

• Helena
  2017-02-26 22:07

  Hello.I want to share my feedback, maybe it will help you in choosing this drug. I have frequent constipation caused by intestinal dysbiosis. The doctor recommended me such a drug “Phytomucil norms n10 sachet.” I spent a month on drink, this drug helped me personally to cope with my problem.

• Zhenya
  2017-02-26 21:14

  The topic may be delicate, but not in my situation.I need laxatives regularly, and without them I simply cannot. I just tried a great many of them, and stopped at Fitomucil on the advice of a doctor: this is not how the body clogs up. Plus, the low price, plus, a bunch of additional “buns” in the form of dulling the feeling of hunger. Acts gently, and all natural ingredients.

• Margot
  2017-02-26 20:46

  Phytomucil was prescribed for me to treat hemorrhoids and normalize bowel function.His price is affordable, and the result of his action pleased and encouraged me – constipation disappeared, the intestines now work like a clock, and even received an additional bonus in the form of several kilograms thrown off in a month, so I am grateful to my doctor for giving it to me …

• Kate
  2017-02-26 20:15

  My grandmother was diagnosed with gastric ulcer.The doctors recommended that she drink the drug in the form of Phytomucil powder. It works well on the stomach and also very relieves stomach pain. Grandma takes it quite often, because it is no longer possible to completely cure this disease. The price is quite reasonable, I would even say low. It helps very quickly.

• Anna
  2017-02-26 20:13

  Phytomucil was prescribed for me to relieve chronic constipation, and I must say that it really helped.Now I drink it sometimes as a preventive measure. Moreover, the price for it is low, there is no harm to the body, continuous benefit. And I felt the effect of it literally the next day, and the intestines are now working like a clock, I’m very happy.

90,000 Constipation? Is it worth treating yourself? – Into-Sana

In clinical practice, constipation is common and represents a serious medical and social problem.In Ukraine, constipation affects 10 to 20% of the population of all ages.

Constipation is a delay in bowel movement for more than 48 hours, accompanied by a difficult bowel movement, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowel, the discharge of a very small (up to 100 g) amount of solid feces.

The problem of regular constipation is a rather delicate topic, but it definitely requires help from a doctor. Many of my patients were embarrassed to see a doctor, preferring to be treated on their own (mainly with laxatives and folk remedies).As a result, the problem of constipation was not solved, and over time it only worsened. It is important to be able to put aside embarrassment and shame and get qualified help. After all, the treatment of constipation should be comprehensive. And a laxative here, as a rule, is not a panacea.

“No” to self-medication

For a start, it would be worth scaring all those who still intend to continue to fight constipation on their own. It has been proven that long-term use of a laxative can give the opposite result over time.There is a good chance that constipation will get worse. As a rule, constipated patients begin to increase the dosage of the laxative, the effect of which gradually diminishes. At the same time, the already weak intestinal motility is reduced even more.

Seeing a doctor is still worth it. And this will be the first sure step in solving the question “how to cope with constipation?”

First, the doctor must determine what are the causes of constipation, which can be different, and are associated, for example, with unhealthy diet, bowel disease, taking certain drugs, neurological and mental illness.

For the diagnosis of a functional disease (i.e., recognition of constipation as an independent disease), it is necessary to exclude organic pathology of the colon (especially in people over 50). For this purpose, X-ray and endoscopic methods of examination of the colon are used.

Treatment of constipation is individual in each case, but general principles still exist. As a rule, the medical influence is aimed at the intestine itself and at changing the patient’s lifestyle as a whole.

Proper nutrition

In most cases, treatment begins with nutritional adjustments. The diet includes food rich in vegetable fiber and organic acids. Raw vegetables, fruits, black bread with bran, cereals with a high content of cell membranes (buckwheat, oatmeal, pearl barley), sour milk, fruit juices, mineral waters can help in this. The largest amount of dietary fiber is contained in food bran, beans and peas, whole wheat flour, artichokes, oatmeal, and almonds.Start your day with a glass of room temperature water with a teaspoon of honey. In addition, if there are no contraindications, it is necessary to drink a sufficient amount of liquid every day – about 1.5-2 liters. Drinking enough fluids and food high in dietary fiber helps to increase intestinal contents and stimulate peristalsis (intestinal motility). However, in each case, the diet is individual. The doctor will advise on the right combination of products to achieve the best result.Indeed, if you suffer from constipation and flatulence at the same time, the use of foods with a large amount of coarse fiber is undesirable for you or should be limited. Such food is also carefully introduced into the diet of people with pronounced intestinal peristalsis. It is equally important to know that there are foods that reduce intestinal motility. These are strong black tea, pureed food, red wines, viscous cereals (especially rice and semolina). With reduced peristalsis, these foods should be limited.

You need to eat fractionally, preferably at least 5 times a day. At the same time, the breaks between meals should not be long.

Physical activity

There is such an expression: “Movement is life!” Physical activity promotes health and wellness.

Exercise increases intestinal motility and general tone of the whole body. Anything that can be opposed to lying on the couch will do here. Walk, swim, ride your bike! This is the easiest and most affordable way to get rid of constipation.A good effect is given by sports exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles.

“We train the stomach”

In gastroenterology there is such a thing as “toilet training”. This means that you are able to develop the habit of using the toilet at certain times every day. The essence of this workout is to go to the toilet at the same time after breakfast (as plentiful and hot as possible). In the early days, you may need to use a laxative.The point is to develop the so-called gastrointestinal reflex, which is often formed as early as 3-5 days and without additional intestinal stimulation!

You can also do a self-massage of the abdomen. Your doctor can teach you this. The massage is done in the morning before you get out of bed. It is done along the colon for 10 minutes daily.

In the treatment of constipation, the rhythm of bowel movements is important. For some, the norm is having a chair every day. And for someone it is enough to empty the intestines every 2-3 days.Both are permissible. The main thing is to achieve a comfortable bowel movement, without straining. And, which is very important, never suppress the urge to her!

Medical aid

If all of the above does not help in the treatment of constipation, your doctor may prescribe regular laxatives.

According to the mechanism of action, several groups can be distinguished:

• irritant laxatives;

90,015 laxatives that increase the volume of stool;

• laxatives that enhance intestinal motor function;
• laxatives, softening feces.

For chronic constipation, it is undesirable to take laxatives for a long time that increase intestinal motility, as well as irritating drugs. This can lead to the appearance of the so-called lazy bowel syndrome. In this condition, there is a need for a constant increase in the dose of the drug, and if you stop taking it, the formation of persistent constipation is possible.

Correct treatment should be aimed at gradually reducing the dose of the laxative until it is canceled.

Along with laxatives, the doctor may prescribe other means aimed at normalizing bowel function. In complex therapy, probiotics are often used – drugs that restore the normal intestinal microflora. In the presence of pain, the doctor will prescribe medications that eliminate spasms of the smooth muscles of the intestine, relieving pain and discomfort. Physiotherapy may additionally be recommended.

There are a lot of treatment options, their choice depends on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body, the cause and stage of the disease.Do not be left alone with your problem, contact the specialists in a timely manner!

90,000 IS IT POSSIBLE TO DRINK MILK WITH CONCUSSION

Chronic constipation. In this case, not only rare, but also too hard stools are characteristic. With an unidentified etiology of impaired motility of the rectum and colon, constipation is referred to as idiopathic.

Dear readers! Our articles talk about typical ways to deal with health problems, but each case is unique.

If you want to know how to solve exactly your problem – start with a weight loss program. It’s fast, inexpensive, and very effective!

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Best Ways to Deal with Constipation

Is it worth drinking milk for constipation or is it better to refuse it? What foods cause intestinal discomfort? Some people experience stool retention or diarrhea, even children may be constipated from milk if they have an intolerance to some of the substances in this product.Sometimes, after a glass of milk, constipation appears in an adult, and even in a baby.

This is due to the fact that the cause of stool retention is intolerance to milk sugar. It often develops with age, but sometimes the child has a congenital lactose aversion. In addition, there is a category of people who can react in this way to the milk protein alpha – 1s-casein, which is contained exclusively in milk from a cow.

This protein substance is capable of creating a sticky membrane in the digestive organs, which forms along its walls.It interferes with the absorption of nutrients and slows down colonic motility.

Therefore, it is not recommended to drink milk in case of constipation. For children who switch to complementary foods, it is recommended to replace cow’s milk with goat’s milk, because it is hypoallergenic and also contains no casein.

If babies consume this drink, then they will be able to quickly gain weight, replenish the body with nutrients, and increase immunity. But with constipation, it does not need to be given to children to drink, since it has a high fat content, and also inhibits the production of gastric juice and intestinal peristalsis.It is also impossible to drink goat’s milk with constipation, this can lead to a deterioration in digestion and painful acts of defecation. Moreover, such a malfunction of the intestines occurs much more often than after drinking cow’s milk.

It is better for adults to refuse to consume milk; various fermented milk mixtures, which are specially designed for babies, can save children from constipation. Parents who prefer formula milk should be aware that starting from 6 months of age, this product will fill the baby’s body with all the necessary nutrients.

But sometimes, due to a sharp transition or violation of microflora and acid-base balance in the intestine, a baby may have a stool retention. Can kefir cause constipation? This nutritious and thirst-quenching product is recommended by doctors to facilitate bowel movements for people with stool retention. But there are times when you can get the opposite result. Not always a delicate problem arises in a person who uses kefir, due to the intolerance of its constituent substances.

Sometimes constipation occurs due to the pathogenic bacterial flora that has developed in it. This happens if you drink kefir that has stood for three to four days or more.

Beneficial microorganisms have a beneficial effect on digestion, improve the act of defecation, and pathogenic, on the contrary, provoke hardening of feces. In order to prevent the development of constipation in the body, which entails the occurrence of more serious diseases, it is necessary to understand in detail what caused such a failure in the work of the digestive tract, and eliminate the causes of this violation.

If it is difficult for a person to do this himself, then you can visit a specialist who will help solve this problem. All of these foods dehydrate the body and remain in the intestines for a long time due to the lack of fiber, which is present in fruits and vegetables. The constant use of such food leads to persistent constipation, especially if a person leads a sedentary lifestyle.

But this problem can be prevented by reducing or eliminating these foods and adding fiber-rich foods.When it enters the body, it swells, creates volume, then moves through the intestines, cleans it of feces, glucose, cholesterol, carcinogens and leaves without being absorbed.

Due to malnutrition, drinking disorders and a sedentary lifestyle, many people suffer from malfunctioning of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, which leads to the development of: pain and colic; swelling and discharge of gases.

By following all of the above tips, a person with a stool disorder will get rid of it.There are categories of people suffering from spastic constipation, in which fiber should not be abused, but, on the contrary, should be reduced.

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Complete List of Natural Laxatives for Constipation in Adults

Fermented milk products must be included in the daily diet of every person. Milk is especially useful for a growing body due to its high calcium content, which is necessary for bone formation.Dairy products also help keep your digestive system working properly. Next, we will take a closer look at how to drink milk correctly for constipation in adults and children. Dairy products have the following features and benefits:

Reminder for constipation in children.

Nutrition for constipation in adults and children must necessarily include natural laxative products. Since irregular bowel movements and the constant use of drugs to cleanse the intestines are very harmful to health.There are several ways in which natural or chemically synthesized compounds can cause a laxative effect. Usually, laxatives, whether natural or synthetic, have multiple effects and work very effectively. Their single use does not bring harm.

Can I eat milk and dairy products with constipation

Yes, this is a real war.However, do not immediately fall into despair and run to the pharmacy for laxatives in case your visit to the toilet was unsuccessful. There are several completely natural ways to effectively relieve constipation symptoms and get you back in a good mood. Some of them are already familiar to you from our previous article on slow digestion, but the new information may surprise you…. According to the common definition, this is the name of a condition in which there are no more than three urges per week.In addition, the stool in such cases is dry and hard, which makes bowel movements difficult and painful. One of the most common causes can be considered a lack of moisture in the stool, caused by insufficient fluid intake. Constipation can also be caused by unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and certain illnesses or medication. The most common symptoms of constipation are bloating and abdominal pain, significant discomfort with bowel movements, feeling unable to get rid of gas, and even vomiting.Since constipation is associated with obstructed bowel movements, hemorrhoids can become one of the unpleasant consequences.

It is impossible to imagine good nutrition without dairy products.

How to eat with constipation

Is it worth drinking milk for constipation or is it better to refuse it? What foods cause intestinal discomfort? Some people experience stool retention or diarrhea, even children may be constipated from milk if they have an intolerance to some of the substances in this product.Sometimes, after a glass of milk, constipation appears in an adult, and even in a baby.

Almost every one of us at least once in our life has encountered indigestion, abdominal discomfort and, as a result, constipation. The basis of any constipation is a violation of intestinal motility – in other words, food is sluggish and inactively moving along the digestive tract, becoming very dense and stagnant.

Treatment of constipation is a long, tense and not always rewarding task, only a purely medical approach to this problem does not solve most of the problems.Colon dysfunction or constipation is a fairly common disease in childhood. Constipation occurs in children of all ages, but especially often in younger students and children attending preschool institutions. In most cases, this disease does not always bring painful sensations to the child, therefore, clearly insufficient attention is paid to this pathology. Parents learn about this disease in a child rather late, especially if the child is shy, secretive.

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Is it possible to drink milk with constipation and can there be constipation from milk

Is it worth drinking milk for constipation or is it better to refuse it? What foods cause intestinal discomfort?

Due to malnutrition, drinking disorders and a sedentary lifestyle, many people suffer from a malfunction of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, which leads to the development in them:

• pain and colic;
• swelling and discharge of gases.

Some people experience stool retention or diarrhea, even children may be constipated from milk if they have an intolerance to some of the substances in this product.

Why can milk cause constipation?

Sometimes, after a glass of milk, constipation appears in an adult, and even in a baby. This is due to the fact that the cause of stool retention is intolerance to milk sugar. It often develops with age, but sometimes the child has a congenital lactose aversion.

In addition, there is a category of people who may react in this way to the milk protein alpha – 1s-casein, which is contained exclusively in milk produced from a cow. This protein substance is capable of creating a sticky membrane in the digestive organs, which forms along its walls. It interferes with the absorption of nutrients and slows down colonic motility. Therefore, it is not recommended to drink milk in case of constipation.

For children switching to complementary foods, it is recommended to replace cow’s milk with goat’s milk, because it is hypoallergenic and also contains no casein.

It can be introduced into the diet of children with disorders:

• rickets;

90,015 anemia;

• low weight;
• frequent colds.

If babies consume this drink, then they will be able to quickly gain weight, replenish the body with nutrients, and increase immunity. But with constipation, it does not need to be given to children to drink, since it has a high fat content, and also inhibits the production of gastric juice and intestinal peristalsis.

Drinking goat’s milk with constipation is also prohibited, this can lead to poor digestion and painful acts of defecation. Moreover, such a malfunction of the intestines occurs much more often than after drinking cow’s milk.

It is better for adults to refuse to consume milk; various fermented milk mixtures, which are specially designed for babies, can save children from constipation. Parents who prefer formula milk should be aware that starting from 6 months of age, this product will fill the baby’s body with all the necessary nutrients.But sometimes, due to a sharp transition or violation of microflora and acid-base balance in the intestine, the baby may have a stool retention.

Constipation and dairy products

Can kefir cause constipation? This nutritious and thirst-quenching product is recommended by doctors to facilitate bowel movements for people with stool retention. But there are times when you can get the opposite result.

The reason for this violation will be the non-perception of lactose by the body, therefore, a person with such a feature cannot drink kefir, in addition, one should adhere to the following rules:

1. Remove from the diet foods that contain lactose and casein: some types of cheese, cottage cheese, cream, yoghurts, varenets and other drinks.
2. To soften the stool, you need to drink more water.
3. Increase the intake of easily digestible fats, which will also improve the consistency of feces and lubricate the intestinal walls.
4. To balance your diet, and also to accelerate peristalsis in case of constipation, you can add the amount of foods rich in fiber.

By following all of the above tips, a person with a stool disorder will get rid of it.

Not always a delicate problem arises in a person who uses kefir, due to the intolerance of its constituent substances.Sometimes constipation occurs due to the pathogenic bacterial flora that has developed in it. This happens if you drink kefir that has stood for three to four days or more. Beneficial microorganisms have a beneficial effect on digestion, help to improve the act of defecation, and pathogenic ones, on the contrary, provoke hardening of feces.

Foods causing stool retention

In order to prevent the development of constipation in the body, leading to the occurrence of more serious diseases, it is necessary to understand in detail what caused such a failure in the work of the digestive tract, and eliminate the causes of this violation.If it is difficult for a person to do this himself, then you can visit a specialist who will help solve this problem.

First of all, you need to find out what causes constipation:

1. Convenience food and instant food, fast food. These foods are virtually fiber-free, but contain many harmful additives and salt.
2. Fatty, fried food, smoked meats and sweet creams with added oil.
3. Sweet baked goods made from premium flour.
4. Flour for making matzo.
5. Chocolates and sweets.
6. Red wine.
7. Persimmon, cactus fruit, unripe bananas, dogwood, pomegranate juice, blueberries, pears.
8. Celery, corn and popcorn.
9. Meat, especially red meat.
10. Dishes of potatoes, rice or pasta with meat.
11. Strong tea and coffee.
12. Pickles and marinades, as well as monosodium glutamate.

All these products dehydrate the body and remain in the intestines for a long time due to the lack of fiber, which is present in fruits and vegetables.The constant use of such food leads to persistent constipation, especially if a person leads a sedentary lifestyle.