Food For Constipated Children
Constipation is a very common health problem. It is common for a high percentage of young children to be constipated. This process can correct itself over the years, or it may require a certain dietary management.
Unless there is some underlying pathology or a mechanical cause that causes this situation, it is normally reversible through proper nutrition. Therefore, it is important to watch your diet to avoid having to undergo drug treatments.
Although in some cases they are strictly necessary, laxatives and other medications can have certain unwanted effects in the body, making the liver suffer for its metabolism. Therefore, below we present certain foods or dietary strategies that can be effective to prevent or treat constipation in children.
Useful foods for constipated children
When children are constipated it is important to determine how severe the problem is. Therefore, first of all, it is best to go to the pediatrician to obtain a diagnosis. From this, the professional will determine if pharmacological treatments are necessary or if dietary changes are enough.
Fortunately, in most cases it is possible to intervene with the diet, since many foods stimulate intestinal motility and favor the relief of this problem. What are the best options?
Fruit
One of the basic nutrients to treat this pathology is fiber. L as fruits and vegetables are rich in this substance that increases the volume of the fecal bolus and, with them, intestinal peristalsis.
There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. The first allows to increase the volume of the bolus by absorbing water. In this way, the transit is mechanically faster and more efficient. In addition, the consistency of the stool is better, since its hardness is limited.
This type of fiber is usually present in fruits and vegetables, so its daily consumption is crucial. However, it is important to vary the fruit consumed. Choosing the seasonal pieces is usually an effective strategy when it comes to ensuring the correct intake of vitamins.
On the other hand, it should be noted that there is a substantial difference between consuming the fruit as such and drinking it in smoothies or juices. Through this second option, we waste part of the fiber in the product, rendering it ineffective in treating constipation.
Oatmeal for constipated children
Within the insoluble fiber one of the great representatives is oats. This type of fiber is characterized by being fermented at the intestinal level, producing short chain fatty acids. This is stated by research published in Cell . These types of substances have an anti-inflammatory power and improve the composition of the microbiota.
A healthy microbiota ensures proper nutrient processing and optimal fluid exchange, preventing diarrhea and constipation. The fiber in oats is mainly made up of beta-glucans, which are compounds that are associated with many benefits.
On the one hand, they have an anti-inflammatory capacity from their fermentation. In addition, they can even regulate the lipid profile of the individual, slightly reducing LDL cholesterol levels.
Whole grains
In addition to oats, there are other types of cereals that can be interesting. But, whenever we are going to consume a cereal, it is important to opt for its integral variety as opposed to the refined one.
These types of foods have a lower glycemic index, which is good news for pancreatic health and for managing or preventing diabetes. On the other hand, the amount of fiber they contain is notably higher, which will improve intestinal transit.
Yogurt for microflora
The consumption of at least one yogurt daily significantly improves the health of the microflora and the symptoms of constipated children. This food has been shown to have a large amount of probiotics, live bacteria that colonize the digestive tract, producing benefits for the host.
In this way, a correct microflora guarantees the correct exchange of liquids and the good absorption of nutrients. For this reason, stools of the appropriate consistency and hardness will be formed for their correct expulsion.
Natural yogurts with little amount of sugar should be consumed since this is a harmful ingredient for health, according to a study published in the journal Frontiers in Bioscience . In recent years, a large number of overly sugary dairy products have appeared. These are included in processed products and, therefore, their consumption should be limited.
However, the consumption of two daily natural yogurts or fermented milk is totally positive for intestinal health and to prevent transit problems.
Constipated children should drink more water
Soluble fiber will not work if your fluid intake is poor. Therefore, the intake of at least 2 liters of water per day is recommended. In this way, the formation of a stool with a correct volume and not excessively hard will be ensured, which could cause some mechanical jamming.
Water is also an essential element for the absorption and distribution of vitamins by the body. It is a fundamental component of blood and is present in all systems that comprise the human body.
With a proper diet you can avoid constipation
The best foods for constipated children are those that are high in fiber. It is necessary to combine foods rich in soluble fiber with those that have insoluble fiber in their composition. Therefore, you should prioritize the consumption of fruits and vegetables and whole grain whole grains.
In this way, we will ensure that the volume of the fecal bolus is correct and that the transit will proceed without complications. All this is important to season it with a copious consumption of water, since many times one of the main problems is the excessive hardness of the stool that makes it difficult to expel.
