Nutrition Support for Constipation in Babies and Children

What Is Constipation in Children?

Constipation in babies and children is very common and can cause discomfort, tummy pain, and distress at mealtimes or during toileting. It’s usually defined as infrequent, hard, or painful stools. In many cases, nutrition and fluid intake play a major role in both the cause and management of constipation.

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Common Signs of Constipation in Babies & Children:

• Less than 3 bowel movements per week

• Hard, pellet-like or very large stools

• Straining or pain during bowel movements

• Soiling or small leaks in underwear (in older children)

• Loss of appetite or fussiness

• Tummy aches or bloating

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Causes of Constipation May Include:

• Low fibre intake (e.g., limited fruit, veg, or wholegrains)

• Inadequate fluid intake (especially water)

• Poor toilet habits or "holding it in"

• Transitioning to solids or formula

• Emotional stress or changes in routine

• Underlying medical issues (e.g. cow’s milk protein allergy, hypothyroidism)

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How Can Nutrition Help with Constipation?

For Babies (Under 1 Year)

• Breastfed babies: May go several days without pooping — this can be normal if the baby is otherwise content.

• Formula-fed babies: May benefit from changes in formula or additional water (only under guidance for infants under 6 months).

• Starting solids: Focus on pureed prunes, pears, and peas. Avoid too much banana, rice cereal, or dairy.

Tip: A few teaspoons of stewed apple, pear, or prune puree can help ease mild constipation in weaning babies.

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 For Toddlers & Older Children

✅ Increase Fibre Gradually:

• Fruit: Berries, apples with skin, pears, kiwi, prunes

• Vegetables: Sweetcorn, peas, carrots, broccoli

• Wholegrains: Porridge oats, wholemeal bread, brown pasta

• Legumes: Lentils, beans, chickpeas (in soups, dips, etc.)

💧 Encourage Fluids:

• Offer plenty of water throughout the day

• Limit fruit juice (but small amounts of prune or pear juice can help)

🥣 Regular Meals & Snacks:

• Aim for structured mealtimes with a mix of fibre-rich foods

• Avoid grazing — this can disrupt digestive rhythms

🧘‍♀️ Encourage Movement:

• Physical activity helps stimulate digestion

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When to See a Paediatric Dietitian

If your child:

• Has ongoing constipation despite changes in diet

• Is fearful or anxious about using the toilet

• Has extremely limited food variety or sensory food aversions

• Has a history of soiling, withholding, or pain with bowel movements

• Is on long-term laxatives and you’re unsure how to transition off

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How We Can Help:

Our paediatric dietitians offer:

• Personalised dietary advice tailored to your child’s eating patterns

• Supplement or fibre product recommendations (if needed)

• Practical mealtime tips and food ideas

• Collaborative support with your child’s GP or health visitor