Things to Know About Constipation and Your Kids Health with Dr. Arun Aggarwal Gastroenterologist

Nowadays, people are facing many health challenges due to lack of time and unhealthy food intake. Constipation is one of the common problems these days. It is not a disease but a condition of the digestive system which occurs in people of all age groups. It occurs because the colon has absorbed too much water from the food that is in the colon. During this condition, the kid might suffer from infrequent bowel movements or hard and dry stool.  

Furthermore, defining constipation for a particular person can be tricky because bowel movements are different from person to person. There are various factors which can lead to constipation in kids. Here we are discussing its causes based on the guidelines outlined by Dr. Arun Aggarwal USA:
The child may ignore the nature’s call to clear the bowel. It might be the reason that he is afraid of the toilet. In most cases, it is noticed that kids avoid or withhold just because they are not in the home.
Uneasy bowel movements and earlier encounter of painful events stop him to clear the bowel. These symptoms increase the chances of indigestion hence constipation occurs.

• It is good to train the children about toilet training but at times it becomes complicated. So the doctors recommend not to begin it too early. It causes restlessness and in the end, he might hold the stool and show rebel. 
• The change in diet results in illness. The lack of a fiber-rich diet and fluids in the child’s diet causes constipation. 
• A small change in your child’s routine can bring changes in his life. Such as travel, weather, tension, all these affect the bowel system. 
• Medicines are also responsible to provoke constipation. 
• It might be the case of family history.

As per Dr. Arun Aggarwal USA, prevention is a better option. The medicines alone are not enough to stop constipation. It is good to add a few practices in your child’s lifestyle.

• Increase the intake of high-fiber foods in his diet. 
• Serve him more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, cereals etc. 
• Start with small portions and the way he likes to consume food. 
• Encourage the kid to drink lots of water. 
• Ask him to play outdoor games and do more of physical activities.  
• Remind your child not to ignore nature’s call. 

Dr. Arun Aggarwal, holds the views that, keeping an eye on your kids routine and eating habits is beneficial for his overall health. At times, people may not recognize that a diet low in fiber and fluid intake is the main contributor to constipation. It isn’t serious in the kids, but in case of fever, blood in the stool, swelling in the abdomen it is advised to see the doctor for the best advice.