Nutritional Disorders Telehealth Network Project

Constipation Alleviation through Fluids/Fiber/Meds

Constipation is a common problem in childhood and is estimated to account for 3% of all general pediatric visits and 25% of all pediatric gastroenterology visits (Sonnenberg & Koch, 1989). Unfortunately, many children who experience constipation will have decreased interest in eating or may develop eating habits which result in a worsening of symptoms. Often, with medical management alone symptoms of constipation improve. However, some children will require a combination of behavioral and medical treatment.

• Children generally have between 2 stools daily and 1 stool every other day. Stools should be soft and easily passed.
• Foods which are high in fat may slow the motility of the gut and cause or worsen symptoms of constipation (e.g., concentrated dairy foods)
• A higher fiber diet with adequate nutrition may help alleviate constipation. A good general rule to follow is to add five to a child’s age to estimate their daily grams of fiber and multiply that sum by 3 to estimate their hydration need. For example a 5 year old child would need about 10 grams of fiber each day and 30 or more oz of fluids.
• If you suspect that a child has a constipation problem a medical evaluation should be recommended.

• General Referral Form for Outside Network Specialty Providers (.pdf)
• Bowel Movement Monitoring Sheet (.pdf)
• High Fiber Recipes (.pdf)