Constipation in children is painful for both the child and the parent. It’s an agony that no parent wants for their child. This leads parents to quick-fix solutions such as laxatives and suppositories; however, we’re now finding that these solutions are doing more harm than good. Check out my article on MiraLAX here—> https://www.facebook.com/Thrivekin/posts/1956394717958411
The good news is that constipation can be resolved naturally by healing the gut and addressing the underlying cause.
Some Causes of Constipation
* dairy allergy, gluten sensitivity and other similar issues
* reaction to certain medications that are regularly taken
* birth from C-section
* GMO food
* antibiotics
* environmental toxins
10 Natural Remedies for Constipation:
1. Probiotics- a high quality probiotic will help stimulate the enzymes and gastric juices in the digestive tract. Certain strains are beneficial for particular areas of the digestive tract. I specifically test my clients to find the best probiotic for them. I love Innate Choice, which works well for many of my clients (adults and children alike).
2. Digestive Enzymes- finding the right digestive enzyme can be the saving grace for children who experience constipation. Enzymes help break down food and certain enzymes help break down specific macros such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. There are many different types of digestive enzymes. Nutrition Response Testing can help determine the right one(s) for your child.
3. Fish Oil- a high quality fish oil has many benefits. One being that it helps lubricate the intestines making it easier for food and feces to pass.
4. Healthy oils- consuming coconut oil and olive oil can be very beneficial for constipation. Coconut oil’s fibrous nature cleanses the colon and balances the stomach’s pH level, both of which affect constipated people positively. Olive oil’s consistency, plus its monounsaturated oil content, acts as a lubricant that speeds up bowel elimination and strengthens the colon’s mucus lining that’s damaged by hard stool. Plus, it helps increase the release of gallbladder bile making fat digestion easier and stool softer. Use coconut oil for cooking with heat and olive oil for cold dishes.
5. Fiber- this has been long found to work wonders for digestive health. Think apples (with peel), carrots, psyllium husk, peas, oranges, okra, etc.
6. Blackstrap Molasses- Being an alkaline food, blackstrap molasses equalizes stomach pH levels for better stool formation and movement. Blackstrap can be added to other food and drink as a sweetener, or can be taken directly with a teaspoon or two then diluted with water to tone down the taste.
7. Test for Food Allergies/Food Sensitivities- eliminating food allergens can immensely improve gut health. Nutrition Response Testing is an accurate, non invasive tool for uncovering potential allergens. More information on this here —>https://www.mitchellfamilychiro.com/nutrition-response-tes…/
8. Epsom salt baths- Use a cup of Epsom salts and a pinch of aluminum-free baking soda in the tub every bath.
9. Water- Make sure your child is drinking a half ounce for every pound in weight. Example: if you child weighs 50lbs, then they should be drinking AT LEAST 25oz of water. More is needed in hotter weather and during heavy activity.
10. Raw Fruit and Veggie Smoothies- blend some greens with your child’s favorite fruit and have them drink a little multiple times a day. The naturally occurring enzymes in the raw food will help digestion.
If your child suffers from occasional or chronic constipation, feel free to contact me to see how Nutrition Response Testing can help. The healthier your child’s gut environment is, the healthier they will be overall!
Questions? Just ask!
Want to work with me 1:1 to create the perfect diet for you and/or your family? Contact me today at dana@thrivekin.com.