By far the most common complaint we hear in the office during the toddler to preschool years- constipation. This is often the time they are potty training and learning to be more independent in the bathroom. This is also when some children become picky eaters. The changes in eating habits, bathroom skills, preschool schedules all contribute to constipation!

Tip #1 DIET

Make sure your toddler is getting plenty of water. They tend to love their carbs at this age and vegetables become less enjoyable. Fiber is still very important. Make sure you are using whole grains whenever using toast, wraps, sandwiches. Add raspberries and blackberries to whole grain, fiber rich pancakes. Blend in peas and lentils to dips such as hummus.

Tip #2 SCHEDULED TOILET TIMES

At this age, and honestly at almost any age – when you are having fun you do not want to stop\ and leave friends to sit on a toilet. Preschoolers often become constipated because they are holding their stools. I recommend having 3 scheduled sitting times a day. Have a timer or use a special video they love as a reward that they only watch during this time. I also recommend getting a bubble wand or pinwheel they can play with while sitting on the toilet. The method of blowing on these toys has a purpose. It subconsciously helps your child to relax muscles involved in stooling.

Tip #3 PROBIOTIC

Add in a quality probiotic to their vitamins. The strain best studied to help with constipation is Bifidobacterium lactis. See the Supplements tab on the website for my favorite and best recommended probiotic.

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