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Dietary fibre, fluids and physical activity in relation to constipation symptoms in pre-adolescent children

Amy Jennings1, G Jill Davies, Vassiliki Costarelli

  • 1Nutritional Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Health Policy and Practice, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK. amy.jennings@uea.ac.uk

Journal of Child Health Care : for Professionals Working with Children in the Hospital and Community
|May 22, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Constipation symptoms affect 33% of schoolchildren, with more active children reporting higher constipation rates. Increased physical activity may be linked to childhood constipation, contrary to common advice.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Gastroenterology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Childhood constipation is common, with lifestyle advice often focusing on increased activity, fluid, and fiber.
  • The relationship between physical activity, fluid intake, and constipation in children requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of constipation symptoms in schoolchildren.
  • To assess the association between constipation symptoms and physical activity levels, fluid intake, and fiber intake.

Main Methods:

  • Eighty-four pre-adolescent children (7-10 years) participated.
  • Data collection included bowel function diaries, activity diaries, and weighed food inventories over seven days.

Main Results:

  • 33% of children experienced constipation symptoms.
  • Children with constipation symptoms had significantly higher physical activity levels.
  • Fluid and fiber intake were not significantly different between children with and without constipation.

Conclusions:

  • Constipation symptoms are prevalent in children, even those not seeking medical care.
  • Higher physical activity levels, particularly low water intake in active children, may be associated with constipation in this age group.
  • Current lifestyle advice for childhood constipation may need re-evaluation.

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