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Constipation and dietary fiber intake in children
H J McClung1, L Boyne, L Heitlinger
1Department of Pediatrics, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus Children's Hospital, USA.
Pediatrics
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Implementing high-fiber diets for children with severe constipation is challenging. Even health-conscious families struggle to meet recommended fiber intake without intensive dietary counseling, highlighting a need for better public education on pediatric nutrition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Severe constipation in children often involves rectal overdistension and insensitivity.
- Treatment requires phased interventions: disimpaction, laxative use, and long-term high-fiber diet.
- Understanding the unique challenges in managing pediatric constipation is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss therapies for severe constipation in children.
- To evaluate dietary fiber intake in children with and without chronic constipation.
- To highlight challenges in implementing and maintaining high-fiber diets.
Main Methods:
- Collected 4-day diet logs from children without chronic bowel disease.
- Assessed dietary fiber intake from logs.
- Compared fiber intake with children experiencing chronic constipation and recommended guidelines.
Main Results:
- Half of health-conscious children fell below recommended daily fiber intake (age + 5g).
- Children with chronic constipation consumed less than one-fourth of recommended fiber, despite instruction to eat high-fiber diets.
- Significant difficulties exist in initiating and sustaining high-fiber diets for pediatric patients.
Conclusions:
- Achieving adequate fiber intake in children with constipation is difficult.
- Intensive and ongoing dietary counseling is essential for families.
- Public education on pediatric nutrition and fiber intake is necessary.
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