Note: This blog is not medical advice and is for informational purposes only. For any specific recommendations or concerns, please refer to your child’s healthcare provider.

Everybody poops, as they say—and with poop comes the potential for constipation. Constipation (often indicated by small pieces or little balls of poop) is a sign your child needs more hydration, or that they may have a food sensitivity. (Note: Constipation can occur when your baby is transitioning to solid foods). It’s also incredibly common in children.

The Main Culprits of Constipation

According to O’Farm expert Nicole Lattanzio, RD, CSP, IBCLC, “there are actually many factors that may contribute to constipation.” In terms of nutrition, she says common causes are lack of fiber, low fluid intake, and/or too many dairy products. “There are also many non-food causes including early toilet training, change in routine, medications/supplements, and activity level.”

When Should You Be Concerned?

In general, Lattanzio shares, “if constipation is lasting longer than 2 weeks, it’s best to reach out to your pediatrician.” Additionally, if there is blood in the stool, pain with pooping, and/or a significant decrease in food intake, she suggests contacting your doctor.

Hydration Is the Name of the Game

“With my clients,” she says, “we always first take a look at water intake and nutrition (with kids 6 months and older). Can we increase the amount of water they’re drinking?” Increasing water-rich foods like fruits and veggies, pouches, and smoothies can help (more tips to help keep kids hydrated here). “Treating occasional constipation at home can include offering small amounts of pear or prune juice.” This can be just 1–2oz.

The Best Foods for Constipation

A good place to start is with “P foods”—particularly for babies, Lattanzio notes—as they contain natural, stool-softening sugars.

• Pears
• Plums
• Prunes
• Peaches

Incorporating hydrating fruits can help add more water to the gut, she shares.

• Cucumbers
• Watermelon
• Tomatoes
• Berries
• Cantaloupe
• Pineapple

And of course, adding fiber!

• Chia Seeds
• Fiber-rich cereal
• Whole-wheat pasta
• Brown rice
• Beans

At the end of the day, you’ll figure out what works for your little one, and what helps to get things moving. Happy pooping!