12 Home Remedies for Constipation in Children

Is your child suffering from constipation? Don't turn to adult laxatives, as these can be harmful. Try these natural remedies instead.

Constipation in children shouldn’t be treated with the conventional laxatives that adults can take. These drugs have an irritating effect on the intestine that can impair its function, especially if they’re abused at an early age.

In today’s article, we’ll give you 12 natural and home remedies for constipation in children that will prevent any risks to their health.

Constipation in Children

Constipation in children shouldn’t happen often, as it’s usually a symptom of an unbalanced diet or another health problem.

Many cases of childhood constipation can be resolved with some dietary changes. You can’t rule out other factors, however, such as emotional problems or leading a sedentary lifestyle.

If this problem persists and you haven’t identified the cause, talk with a doctor as soon as possible to perform any relevant tests. This will help rule out diseases and if they are present, to follow the appropriate treatment.

12 home remedies for constipation

1-Olive oil

A tablespoon of olive oil on an empty stomach is a foolproof treatment for constipation. Children often respond quickly to this simple habit that you can keep up for a few weeks until the problem is resolved.

• Extra virgin olive oil acts as a mild laxative and a very healthy food that’s essential to a balanced diet.

• In addition to taking it on an empty stomach, you can also use it to dress salads.

2-Apples

Apples are a fruit with lots of fiber, fructose, and sorbitol that can regulate your digestive function depending on how you eat them.

• You should eat an apple in the morning with its peel to fight constipation.
• We recommend only buying organic apples, however, to avoid any pesticides.

3-Plums

Plums are another excellent mild laxative that will help prevent constipation in children naturally.

• Just have your child eat four plums on an empty stomach in the morning.
• If you prefer dried plums, or prunes, be sure to soak them in water overnight first.

4-Kiwi

Kiwis are another fruit that’s very beneficial for healthy intestinal function. Many people eat kiwis every morning to facilitate bowel function thanks to their fiber and enzyme content.

• You can eat it alone or combine it with apples and plums for a delicious and nutritious smoothie that your child will love.

5-Flaxseed

Flaxseed is a famous treatment for constipation. Just remember that you must soak them in water overnight first.

• While the seeds soak, they release soluble fiber, known as mucilage.
• On an empty stomach in the morning, have them drink both the seeds and the water.
• If they don’t like the plain beverage or the gelatinous texture, mix it with some fruit.

6-Chia seeds

Chia seeds work in the same way as flaxseed. Chia seed consumption promotes a deep cleansing of the digestive tract without irritating your intestine.

• When you soak them in water, they release fiber.

7-Lemon juice

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water (200 ml)
• The juice from 1 lemon

Preparation

• Heat the water to a comfortable temperature and add the lemon juice.
• Drink this mixture on an empty stomach.

8-Honey

Honey, especially the acacia variety, has a mild laxative effect and also reduces intestinal inflammation. It’s also a very healthy and energizing food for children.

9-Oats

Oats are one of the richest cereals when it comes to fiber, making it ideal for children with constipation.

• You can add oats to soup, broths, creams, stews, cookies, smoothies, and more.

10-Psyllium

• You can use it to treat cases of both constipation and diarrhea.

11-Water

When you increase your fiber intake, you can’t forget to drink more water to help digest it.

• Make sure that your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day. After all, dehydration also causes constipation.

12-Massage

This last remedy is a simple one. When your child goes to bed at night, give him or her a gentle abdominal massage. It’s important that you follow the path of the intestine.

• Start over the right groin area.
• Reach below the ribs.
• Follow to the ribs on the left side.
• Move down to the left groin area.

Read it in Step To Health

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