Diarrhoea and constipation may trouble your toddler as they try new foods and expand their diet. Don’t let these unpleasant issues slow them down; there are plenty of easy ways to deal with them. With careful management, they’ll be well able to bounce back and continue their gastronomic adventures.

How to manage toddler diarrhoea

Diarrhoea happens when someone has three or more loose, watery bowel movements in 24 hours. It’s often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. You may also find your child has a fever, stomach pain, and vomiting.

The biggest worry when your toddler has diarrhoea is that they may become dehydrated. A child with loose stools is losing fluids and electrolytes faster than normal. Make sure that they are drinking plenty of water or an oral rehydration solution.

Your child also needs to rest. Allow them small, frequent sips of liquid rather than big gulps. In most cases, the issue will go away on its own in a few days.

How to deal with toddler constipation

A toddler with constipation has hard, dry stools and trouble going to the toilet. It’s a common issue for children between the ages of one and three, particularly when they’re trying new solid foods. It can be caused by a lack of physical activity as well as a failure to drink enough water or eat enough fibre. The main trouble with constipation is pain and discomfort, as well as irritability and disrupted sleep.

You can prevent it by ensuring your child has enough water and fibre in their diet. They should also be active for at least three hours a day, so encourage them to do this during playtime and when you’re outdoors. You could also use some of the home remedies that adults try, like having them drink prune juice or mixing flaxseed with their food. Kiwi is also thought to aid constipation. Massage your toddler’s stomach or teach them self-massage. As a last resort, your doctor may recommend a laxative or stool softener. These are short-term solutions that a child shouldn’t be swallowing regularly.

When to seek medical help for your child

Toddler diarrhoea and constipation can be managed at home with simple remedies, but there are instances where you’ll need to get professional advice. Diarrhoea accompanied by dry mouth, sunken eyes, or a lack of tears requires immediate medical help, for example. Further, a constipated toddler who is in a lot of pain and vomiting or feverish needs to see a doctor. This is because constipation can sometimes be a sign of intestinal obstruction or a thyroid problem. It can also impact your child’s desire to eat, so do get severe or persistent constipation checked out.

What do I need to know about diarrhoea and constipation?

For Unii’s Toddler Nutrition Journey, we look at what parents of toddlers with constipation or diarrhoea should know.