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Cutoff volume of dietary fiber to ameliorate constipation in children

Hsun-Chin Chao1, Ming-Wei Lai, Man-Shan Kong

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.

The Journal of Pediatrics
|June 24, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This study determined optimal dietary fiber intake for childhood constipation relief. Higher fiber intake significantly improved constipation, with specific daily targets for younger and older children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • Constipation is a common pediatric issue.
  • Dietary fiber is a key factor in managing constipation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the appropriate daily intake volume of dietary fiber for effectively relieving constipation in children.
  • To establish age-specific dietary fiber recommendations for pediatric constipation management.

Main Methods:

  • A 3-year prospective study evaluated 422 children (3-14 years) with constipation.
  • Children were divided into younger (3-7 years) and older (8-14 years) groups.
  • Improvement was assessed over 12 weeks, with "good improvement" defined as ≥60% symptom relief.

Main Results:

  • 53.8% of children showed improvement, and 49.1% achieved constipation relief.
  • Increased dietary fiber intake positively correlated with constipation improvement in both age groups (P = .002, P < .001).
  • Recommended daily dietary fiber intake cutoffs were 10 g for younger children and 14.5 g for older children.

Conclusions:

  • The required daily dietary fiber intake for constipation relief increases with age.
  • These age-specific fiber intake levels can be achieved within a 12-week intervention period.
Abstract

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