Question

A one-year-old girl is very strained during bowel movements, often with a flushed face and crying when feeling discomfort. Parents are seeking advice on improving infant constipation.

Answer

Infant constipation is often related to lifestyle and dietary habits. If the condition is not severe, it is recommended to focus on nourishment and avoid early medication. Parents can increase their child’s water intake, eat a moderate amount of fruits without astringent taste, and adopt a small and frequent eating pattern. Honey water can also be an option. At the same time, encourage children to exercise more and perform moderate abdominal massage. Oral intake of vegetable fiber or traditional Chinese medicine adjustment can also be considered. It is advisable to avoid giving children astringent and spicy foods, as well as junk food, and to keep away from industrial pollution.