Kids and Bowel Health: Ask the Doctor
HELPcare Clinic Nurse Practitioner Stephanie Kimmes talks about how to help kids have good bowel health. This is a topic that comes up frequently at well-child visits.
What is considered good bowel health?
The Bristol Stool Chart is used to classify stool consistency:
For children and adults, stool should ideally be in the range of a three or four in the chart above. Type three is stool that is "sausage or snake-like, smooth and soft" and type four is described as "fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool."
What to watch out for concerning your child's bowel movements
- If your child's poop is like number one or number two in the chart above, it may be a sign of dehydration, reduced fiber in the diet, or sedentary activity.
- If your child's bowels are watery or loose this is a sign that there might be something wrong like a virus, especially if it's explosive.
- White mucus or blood in the stool can be a sign of infection or other problem. If your child's stool is like this, consult a provider.
- Talk to your doctor also if your child is having frequent, loose bowel movements, particularly if associated with a fever, frequent vomiting, or blood in the stools.
How to help your child have healthy bowels
- Drink lots of water. A good indicator of hydration is if the child has light yellow urine throughout the day starting at about noon.
- Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help with digestion and bowel health. Look for foods that have fiber in them like peas, pears, and peaches (the three P's).
- Encourage your child to move his or her body every day in something he or she enjoys doing.
Note: These videos are presented for educational purposes only. Your use of this site does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Specific medical advice is only offered through membership in HELPcare Clinic.
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