Question
My child has recently had a poor appetite and often doesn’t have a bowel movement for three or four days. What foods can help him defecate faster?
Answer
Occasional constipation in children can be relieved by trying oral medications or using a small cotton swab dipped in water to gently stimulate the anus. For mild constipation, you can take a Yin-nourishing and Intestine-moistening oral liquid. For chronic constipation, it’s important to identify the cause, which is usually dietary issues. Adjust the child’s diet to ensure a balanced intake of protein, vegetables, and fruits.