Not only viral flu, cold, or cough but there is a concerning rise in the constipation cases among children aged 10-14. If ignored, this can lead to digestive health problems.

Constipation happens because of infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools and can impact the child’s health. Various reasons such as lack of fiber in the diet, dehydration, lack of physical activity, consumption of processed food, and stress can cause constipation in kids. Apart from these factors, even seasonal variations like cold weather can raise the risk of dehydration and absence of physical activity due to increased screen time causing constipation in kids.

It is the need of the hour to pay attention to the child’s eating habits by including fiber in the diet, making him/her drink enough water, exercising daily at home, and avoiding eating processed foods.

"Winter can be harsh on children and not just adults. While it is often considered a pleasant season, it can lead to several health concerns in children, including constipation. Constipation, which refers to difficulty in passing stools, tends to spike during this season due to factors like a low-fiber diet, insufficient water intake, and sedentary lifestyles that reduce bowel movement. Stress also plays a role, as it disrupts the gut-brain axis, crucial for healthy digestion. 6 out of 10 children aged 10-14 visit the OPD daily with symptoms such as infrequent stools, dry and hard stools, abdominal bloating, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. Parents should seek medical advice promptly if their child is unable to pass stools for more than 2-3 days,” said Dr Nishant Bansal, Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Noida

Dr Nishant said that to deal with constipation, parents should ensure that children have a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding processed foods or junk food. "Encourage them to drink 10-15 glasses of water daily and stay active with regular physical exercise (walking indoors or any activity of the child’s choice). For providing that much-needed relief to children, laxatives (enema) recommended by a doctor can be helpful for children to regulate bowel movements. Constipation can disrupt a child’s daily routine and affect their focus on studies, so addressing it is essential for improving their overall quality of life," he added.

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