Practical Parenting: What the Poop?

One in 20 pediatric doctor’s visits are around topics related to poop and concerns of potential constipation. This is unsurprising as changes in a child's stool can be one of the first indicators of health issues, prompting immediate parental concern. But Dr. Terry Nguyen, Chair of Pediatrics at GBMC HealthCare, explores why not pooping shouldn’t cause alarm, and helps parents better understand their child’s health as it relates to bowel movements.

It's important to first be able to recognize the different types of stool. The Bristol Stool Form scale is a great indicator and ranges from type one (hard, coffee bean-like lumps which are difficult to pass) to type five (watery diarrhea). Ideal stools are typically type three or four, characterized as sausage-shaped, fluffy and mushy. These types indicate a healthy digestive process.

However, it is important to note, this scale is only relevant once children start eating solid foods. For infants, especially newborns, bowel movements can be highly variable. Variations are normal, and the frequency of bowel movements can decrease without indicating an underlying problem.

Food plays a major role in bowel health. Organic constipation is unrelated to food but is rare and caused by underlying health conditions like celiac or thyroid diseases. Functional constipation, which makes up about 95% of cases in children, often results from dietary choices or a temporary condition like a gastrointestinal virus.

Low fiber intake, binding foods likes cheeses, and dehydration are frequent culprits of constipation.

Increasing fiber intake through fruits and vegetables helps create softer, bulkier stools and promotes regular bowel movements. Adequate fluid intake is also essential for softening stool and preventing constipation.

Parents are often curious about the need for probiotics and prebiotics in maintaining their child’s gut health. Dr. Nguyen advises incorporating these naturally into the diet, rather than through a supplement. Fermented foods like yogurt and kefir support a healthy gut microbiome. This, in turn, can benefit overall health, including alleviating symptoms of eczema and food allergies due to a more balanced immune response.

This podcast episode serves as a comprehensive guide for parents concerned about their children's digestive health. While poop topics might seem trivial, they are integral to assessing and ensuring a child's wellbeing.

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