Microbiome Moment: Kids' Constipation 💩 What Most Parents Aren't Told (and What Actually Helps)

I never thought I would be the mom writing about poop… but here we are! Constipation is one of the most common struggles I see in families almost every day, and I have lived it myself. 

If you've ever had to sit in the bathroom with your toddler, hoping something would finally move (pain-free) or let your child know it's safe to go and that they don't have to hold it in…I see you. You're not alone. I've been there- going days without a bowel movement, being told "this is normal" and "they'll grow out of it. Eventually, I left the pediatrician's office with a Miralax prescription (after trying prune juice at every meal, fiber powder, etc.). Deep down, my gut told me there was something more to the story (and I was right), but I just felt so hopeless and needed to help my kid. I did the best I could at the time with the information I had. But that doesn't have to be you. 

What Most Parents Are Told

The advice and questions I see given out the most sound like…

• Give more foods high in fiber
• Add a fiber powder supplement
• Try an over-the-counter probiotic 
• Drink more water
• Did you try prune juice? 
• Did I already mention fiber? 

Some of these things provide temporary relief, but they also exacerbate the situation, and they fail to address the underlying cause of the constipation. Constipation is a deeper gut health issue. Constipation can also tend to lead to withholding in toddlers because they become fearful of going poop (this is a whole other blog post topic for the future). Miralax, enemas, extra raisin bran, and prune juice might move things along for a while, but they don't restore balance to the microbiome or help the body find its natural rhythm again. Fiber without minerals is like giving a plant soil without water; it won't grow, and it won't thrive. 

The Gut Connection

Constipation is the body's way of waving a flag and telling you something is off!! It's not a random inconvenience; it's a signal. Some of the most common root causes I see are:

1. Microbiome imbalances: too much of the not-so-good bugs/ bacteria, not enough variety and diversity of the good bugs
2. Nervous system dysregulation: kids who hold poop in, say they don't have to go because of pain, fear, stress, and get caught in this revolving door that keeps digestion slow
3. Nutrient deficiencies: being low in specific nutrients and minerals means things in the gut don't move the way they should
4. Food sensitivities: certain foods may be triggering an inflammatory response, not allowing the gut to do the work it needs to do
5. Low diversity: limited foods due to pickiness (mineral imbalances) can slow everything down

So What Actually Helps?

Gentle, realistic shifts often make a difference.

• Hydration with minerals: Water alone isn't consistently enough. Adding minerals helps the body actually use the water. Try a pinch of sea salt (I love Redmond's brand), a squeeze of lemon, and coconut water
• Balanced meals: Instead of just adding more fiber, consider a variety of options. Protein, healthy fats, and colorful plants work together to keep digestion moving—less processed food.
• Movement and play, such as jumping, running, swinging, and even belly laughs, all stimulate the gut. This makes a huge difference and also helps support a balanced nervous system!
• Routine + calm: Kids thrive on predictability. Encourage bathroom times after meals, with the body's natural reflex, which is strongest, and create a relaxed environment that helps them feel safe. 

When the Basics Don't Keep Things Moving

You may have already tried all of this, and nothing is working consistently. That's when testing can help us with a deeper understanding and get more clarity. Testing while working with a practitioner helps guide you with your results.

• Tinyhealth stool testing - inside look and deep dive into your child's microbiome to see what is out of balance.
• GI MAP- deeper picture of digestion, inflammation, microbes
• Food sensitivity testing - shows us which foods might be causing some inflammation

When I tested myself and my kids, the results were eye-opening. Finally, we got answers, and once we made some changes based on those insights, his digestive system and, honestly, his whole personality began to shift back to the happy, energetic kid I knew was inside.

You Don't Have to Do This Alone

Constipation is common, but that doesn't mean it's normal. And you don't have to figure it out alone. Small, consistent changes make a big difference, and sometimes we need to dig a little deeper to give us the missing pieces we've been searching for. This is exactly why I do the work I do now- because I wish I had someone tell me these things a few years ago when I was in the thick of it. 

Looking for a simple way to support your gut health (and your kiddos')? Grab my free 5-Day Gut Rescue Plan here: 5 Day Rescue Plan

Recipe that helps things move!!💩

Berry Chia Pudding🫐🍓
Mix ➡️ 1 cup coconut milk, 3 Tbsp chia seeds, ½ cup mashed berries, ½ tsp ground flaxseed, drizzle of honey or maple syrup
Chill ➡️ 2 hours or overnight.
Enjoy ➡️ creamy, sweet, and gut-loving!

Why it helps: chia + berries + flax= gentle fiber + prebiotics. Coconut milk = healthy fats to keep digestion moving.

See you next week, and remember to thank yourself for being yourself.

XO

MaryRose
The Microbiome Mom

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_{Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is intended for inspirational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Nothing in this blog is intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary, lifestyle, or supplement changes, and do not forego or delay seeking medical attention based on the information shared in this blog. Please always consider your personal situation and do your own research.}