Kids and Constipation

How to keep it real and regular

No matter what your age or gender, you have likely experienced constipation at one time or another. Whether it be because of something you ate last night, the little water you drank today or the stress you’ve been experiencing since last week, being backed up is no fun.
I think we can all agree that everybody feels great after a bowel movement. So how can we make this more of a reality for the thousands of people who drink adequate water and still experience chronic constipation? ​

Flaxseed

This powerful linseed is a plant-based phytoestrogen, which means aside from its ability to bulk up your stool, it can also help to modulate an estrogen imbalance. This is really great for anyone experiencing menopausal symptoms, pre-menstrual symptoms or any other hormone imbalance that wreaks havoc on your digestive tract and leaves you backlogged.

Peppermint and Chamomile tea 

This is one of the greatest soothing treatments for children and is easy and accessible. Just drop one bag of each tea in a pot of hot water, steep for 10 minutes, and drink. Kids might enjoy this as an ice tea, a lukewarm drink, or even a syrup with honey and ginger. ​

Castor Oil Belly Rubs

Childhood colic isn’t fun for anyone. Rub a bit of castor oil on a colicky belly and add a heat pack or a soothing massage for the most gentle and calming of all the constipation fixes. Of course, this approach is suitable for adults as well, but be sure to use old sheets and clothing as the oil can leave a stain. 

Vitamin C

We know it is as an antihistamine, antioxidant, immune booster and skin protector, but did you know it is also an osmotic laxative in higher doses? Basically, it means that vitamin C helps to draw water into the large intestine to facilitate bowel movements when consumed in excess of the body’s requirements. Why not clear out the intestines while having an added bonus of immune support?

Magnesium

Well known and researched for its effects on muscle relaxation, magnesium is an incredible micronutrient that is commonly deficient in our vegetables and therefore also our diets. Similarly to Vitamin C, magnesium when taken in excess can help to clear out the intestines. However, it is only effective when consumed with adequate water intake, so drink up! 

If you are finding that constipation is happening more often than not, it might be worth considering a more thorough investigation into what might be affecting your digestive health. As a Naturopathic Doctor, my goal is to rule out any infections or conditions that may be the root cause of the delayed transit time. I also find food sensitivity testing to be a powerful indicator and life changer for many, bringing awareness to certain foods that may be harder on the system than previously thought. Stress and anxiety also have direct connections to the digestive tract, making mental health an important component to consider in a health history. If you feel that this is something to consider as part of your health strategy, please discuss with your Naturopathic Doctor. ​