Naturopathic Medicine for Pediatric Constipation

A child sits hunched over on a bed, clutching their stomach in pain, as they struggle with a severe stomach ache.

Being a Naturopathic Doctor, I love talking about poop. It may seem like a funny topic, but it’s crucial! The quality of digestion tells me a lot about a person's health. Gut health is deeply interconnected with everything, such as skin health, immune health, and mental health.

The Importance of Digestive Health

After struggling with digestion during my childhood, I know how important it is to make this experience more comfortable for others. Many children suffer silently, and it’s time we address this issue. You may have already sought help for your child's constipation. Unfortunately, the only solution you might have heard of is Restoralax.

My Perspective on Restoralax

Restoralax can indeed be effective for resolving constipation, but it should not be seen as a complete solution. It must be part of a larger plan for better digestive health.

When digestion functions normally, stool builds up, which causes the bowel wall to stretch. This stretching activates stretch receptors, signaling the body to start peristalsis, the movement that pushes stool through the digestive tract. However, chronic constipation can lead to overstretched bowel walls. This reduces the sensitivity of the stretch receptors, making it more difficult for stool to pass. The result is a vicious cycle of stool accumulation, dryness, and painful bowel movements.

This discomfort can create a fear of going to the bathroom, causing children to withhold their stool. Unfortunately, this worsens the problem.

How Does Restoralax Work?

Restoralax is classified as an osmotic laxative. This means it works by drawing water into the digestive tract. The added moisture hydrates the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It also increases stool bulk, which encourages peristalsis.

Although Restoralax can retrain the bowels to be more sensitive to stool, achieving regular bowel movements can take months. Many parents find it uncomfortable to administer Restoralax for extended periods. Fortunately, there are other options to consider.

5 Ways Naturopathic Medicine Can Help with Pediatric Constipation

A comprehensive plan for managing constipation includes several approaches:

1. School-Friendly Meal and Snack Ideas: Incorporate fiber-rich foods into your child's diet. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are excellent choices. Check out this yummy kid-friendly, chia jam recipe to help sneak in some extra fiber.

2. Identifying Foods That Slow Digestion: Work on decreasing foods that may hinder the digestive process. This can include processed snacks and excessive dairy.

3. Encouraging Healthy Gut Flora: Focus on probiotics and prebiotics to promote a balanced microbiome. This may involve introducing fermented foods or supplements.

4. Increasing Water Intake: Find enjoyable ways to help your child drink more water. This is essential for softening stool. Consider fun bottles or infusing water with fruits.

5. Supplementing Wisely: Consider complementary supplements to encourage bowel movements and alleviate bloating or tummy pain.

   
   

These strategies are part of my individualized approach to care. My ultimate goal with naturopathic medicine for pediatric constipation is to assist your child in achieving regular bowel movements naturally, without relying solely on Restoralax or any other supplement.

Why Choose Naturopathic Care?

Working with a Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in pediatrics, like myself, means having ample time to assess and understand the root causes of constipation. We’ll dive deep into potential issues like gut dysbiosis, food triggers, structural contributors, and mental health factors. Together, we can implement Naturopathic strategies tailored to your child's unique needs.

If you'd like to learn more about how I work with children, check out my Naturally Nurtured Kids Wellness Program. As a Naturopathic Doctor in Mississauga and Milton, I am accepting new patients virtually across Ontario. Most clinics provide direct billing to insurance, and lab testing ordered by Naturopathic Doctors may be covered by extended health benefits.

You can apply as a patient to be eligible for a free 15-minute Discovery Call. This is a great opportunity to learn how my services might fit into your child's health journey.

Book a consult now!

DISCLAIMER: This does not constitute a therapeutic relationship, and this is not medical advice. Please consult with your primary care practitioner before adding new therapies into yours or your child’s regimen.