IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
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Constipation

What you need to know:

As long as any underlying cause has been thoroughly investigated and ruled out or is being treated, there are several natural ways you can help treat a short bout of constipation and prevent a recurrence. But if any baby, child or young person gets a sudden, constant change in bowel habits, they should always be taken to the doctor.

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

The real key to preventing constipation which isn’t a symptom of anything serious is teaching children how to eat healthily. You can get advice from a registered naturopath, but the basic principles they should learn are:
  • Drink at least 2 litres of fluid a day - adjust to suit age
  • Eat more soluble fibre from apples, pears, oats, root vegetables, green vegetables and dried beans
  • Increase fibre intake with more wholemeal bread and pasta, brown rice, nuts, seeds
  • Eat plenty of dried fruit, especially apricots and prunes - they’re rich in fibre, too
  • Don’t add extra bran or wheat bran to food - yes, it’s fibre, but it’s the unhealthy, insoluble type and they’ll get enough of both types of fibre from a good balance of the foods above
  • Eat a pot of bio-yoghurt every day - your gut needs the friendly bacteria
Going to the loo regularly is essential, too. Try to make sure older children and teenagers go at the same time each day. Like adults, they may get only two or three major contractions of the bowel and they often come at the same time - often first thing in the morning. If they suppress or miss the contractions because they’re late for school, they may not pass a motion for the rest of the day. If they already have a problem with constipation, that’s when the bad habits begin.

The most useful Herbs and Supplements:

Several natural herbs, remedies, supplements and therapies can help.
  • Dandelion root
  • Liquorice root
  • Linseeds
  • Ispaghula seeds
  • Psyllium seeds
  • Fennel seeds

Homoeopathy

The homoeopathic remedies Alumina, Bryonia and Opium might also be helpful.

Aromatherapy

Black pepper, Ginger and marjoram Aromatherapy oils massaged clockwise around the stomach are very soothing.

Other useful advice:

And as far as therapies are concerned, older children and young people could benefit from Acupuncture, Yoga and abdominal exercises taught by a qualified gym instructor.

If you’re looking for natural supplements, Ortisan fruit cubes - based on tamarind - are the best natural commercial products.

It’s also worth remembering that many prescribed and over-the counter painkillers and medicines, which contain iron, may cause constipation. Ask the pharmacist if you’re unsure. And using laxatives long-term isn’t healthy as they can cause irritation and inflammation of the bowel, poor nutrient absorption and - in severe cases - dependence. If you have a teenage girl who’s showing obsessive concern about her weight, try to make sure she’s not using laxatives in an attempt to control it.

Here’s one old-fashioned remedy that really works: pour 1 ½ pints of boiling water over 2 lbs of stoned prunes and a few pieces of bruised Liquorice stick. Cover and leave overnight. Remove the Liquorice, pour off the liquid and puree the prunes. Keep in the fridge and have 2 dessertspoons with breakfast and two with a warm drink at bedtime.
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This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk).
The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.