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Diet Changes For Stool Problems

Resource Type

Parent Handouts and Info - Parent

Description

Diet Changes For Stool Problems

Ages

All Ages

Age Groups

Preschool/Kindergarten (3-5), School Age (6-12)

Web Address

http://resources.childhealthcare.org/cocoon/dtw/parent-text/elimination/diet_changes.html

Languages

English

Diet changes for stool problems

Diet changes for stool problems

If your child is constipated and has painful stools it is very important to deal with this right away. Here are few things that should help.

  • Have your child eat at least 5 grams of fiber plus their age in years (7 grams for a 2 year old). High fiber foods include skinned apples, peas, peaches, pears, Fig Newtons, corn, raw tomatoes, sweet potatoes, popcorn (only if >4 years), prunes, pineapples, whole wheat or bran bread and bran muffins.
  • Metamucil wafers, Milk of Magnesia, Miralax, or Citrucel are helpful in softening stools. Ask your pediatrician.
  • Have your child drink plenty of water. Apple juice may either soften stools or cause constipation in different children
  • Also keep away from constipating foods like too much milk, cheese, cooked carrots, rice and bananas.
  • Try switching to soy milk (it softens stools) instead of cow milk.

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