Children of all ages now, even babies and toddlers, seem to be more susceptible to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, gas, irritable bowel syndrome, etc.
It is important to note that when one’s digestion is impaired, it points to the fact that the food taken in is not being broken down the way it should. Here are some ways to remedy any digestive issues, where most of the time, the underlying causes are inappropriate eating habits.
Discourage overeating
Overeating puts a lot of unnecessary pressure on a digestive system, especially a child’s. When too much food is eaten, the body’s ability to break them down is effected, hence assimilation of nutrients is also compromised. Overeating can occur easily, anytime. In restaurants, for example, when your child is having his favourite meal — Most restaurants serve generous portions of food for consumer appeal and of course, for your money’s worth, but unfortunately, it may not be the best thing for your child’s digestive health.
No matter how your child likes a certain food, make it a point to serve smaller portions and add more food only if he is still hungry, e.g. if he asks for more. In restaurants, likewise, either ask that the portions be smaller or ask for an empty plate to serve your child’s controlled portion on.
Less or no drinks with a meal
Liquids dilute the body’s digestive juices, rendering the system less effective in digesting a meal. For a young child’s body, this could lead to digestive issues such as constipation, nausea, gas, etc. While drinking water is a good habit for young children, when it comes to mealtimes and beating digestive issues, timing can help. One good way is to ensure your child only has a drink about 15 minutes before a meal or half an hour after a meal.
Avoid serving heavy meals
Foods such as meat and dairy products are more difficult for young bodies to digest compared to lighter foods such as fruits and vegetables, but they cannot be eliminated from a toddler’s diet though. (refer to the food pyramid shown*) Instead, it can be moderated to help his digestive system keep up with the hard work. One way to do this is to have one or two vegetarian days a week, where meals are made up of vegetables instead of meat.
This article is in conjunction with World Digestive Health Day, which is observed on the 29th of May.
