Question
Hello, my sister’s daughter is over 2 years old, but she has been constipated since she was a newborn. We have seen a doctor, who advised us to pay attention to diet, drink more water, and eat more fruits. However, there has been little improvement. We have also tried many methods that others say are effective, but there has been no change. What should we do?
Answer
Generally speaking, it might be due to too refined a diet. It is recommended to include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and sweet potatoes. Develop good bowel habits. It is suggested that children should have a bowel movement once a day, preferably after dinner each day. Before defecation, one can have the child perform a squatting action to increase abdominal pressure, or massage the abdomen in a clockwise direction to promote peristalsis. If defecation is too difficult, applying some soap water to the anus can facilitate immediate bowel movement. It is also possible to promote defecation by massaging the abdomen. First, use the palm of your hand to rub the child’s abdomen in a circular motion in a clockwise direction for 5 to 10 times. Remember not to lift your palm off the child’s skin.