The other week I was babysitting for some friends. They have some older children and one toddler. Their pretty much like any other toddler, except that he has some digestive issues and is often constipated. That’s why when I watch him I have to make sure he gets a certain amount of fresh fruit. However, it can’t be just any fruit. It has to be fruit that is specifically good for toddler’s digestive systems.

Toddler Digestive Systems
Toddlers have digestive tracts that are more developed that an infant’s, but they’re still developing all the same. There are some foods that a toddler just can’t handle in large amounts, and dairy is sometimes one of those foods. Now, many toddlers can handle dairy just fine, but for others, it causes either diarrhea or constipation. 

Constipation, gas, and diarrhea are also caused by other things as well, but dairy is often the source of discomfort and so is swallowing too much air. The best way to deal with dairy-related problems is not to eliminate dairy entirely, but to cut back and introduce a selection of fruit to the diet. However, there are also other ways to help your toddler if fruit alone isn’t enough.

Friendly Bacteria
One good way to help your toddler’s digestive track is to give them fresh bacteria in the form of probiotics. There are actually a few good powdered probiotic that are designed for children over the age of two. It can easily be dissolved in milk or water, but if your toddler’s stomach is upset because of milk, it’s best to give him water.

Excess Carbohydrates
For all infants and toddlers, make sure you’re not feeding them too many carbohydrates. This includes any processed foods or refined foods that have too much sugar and corn syrup. These are bad in excess for anyone of any age, but they are especially hard on your toddler’s digestive track.

Healthy Fats
In addition to fruits like grapes, pears, and apples, a small helping of healthy fats such as coconut oil, ghee, and sour cream is also good for your toddler. These are easier to feed to toddlers than infants since they have already started eating solid foods. Simply add a small amount of healthy fats to their breakfast, lunch, or dinner to help soften their stool. You can put the fats in things like pancakes or oatmeal, or you can add a dollop of sour cream to their lunch or dinner.

Rockwell, A. (2011, June 7). 8 safe natural ways to stop constipation in toddlers . foodforkidshealthcom.