The gut is one of the most important factors when it comes to our overall health, many issues can be tied to unbalanced gut flora, so it is essential to make sure that we keep our gut health in check. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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No one likes to talk about poop,( Ok, I like to talk about it) and it’s typically something we don’t have to think about much. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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However, it can become a real issue especially for children who are on the spectrum. It was found that kids on the spectrum are 250 times more likely than the general population to receive repeating laxative prescriptions. Almost 33 to 50 percent have experienced constipation. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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While it may not seem like huge deal constipation can indicate a larger issue when it comes to gut and immune system health. It can be an indicator that your child’s immune system is not as strong as it should be.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
So gut problems might be creating behavioral problems in kids?
It shouldn’t come as a huge surprise. Loads of evidence have been suggesting a link between gut health and emotional health for years. We call it the gut-brain-axis or sometimes even refer to the intestinal tract as “the second brain.”
🧠 The vagus nerve communicates between the brain and the gut, like a 2-way street
🧠 Microbes in the gut release compounds that activate the vagus nerve
🧠 Microbes in the gut influence everything from inflammation to mood
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There are a few simple things you can do to help combat this issue.
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💩Drinking prune, apple, or grape juice can help to soften the stool, and drinking more water can really help the body overall. Try diluting any juices that your little one drinks with water; they will barely notice, and this will help keep them more hydrated and less prone to becoming constipated again. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
💩Encourage a well-balanced diet that is full of fiber, this encourages the movement of fluids and other materials through the digestive system. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
💩Try reducing your child’s intake of dairy products as these can often increase constipation. As mentioned before try using probiotics such as yogurt and increase fluid intake to help combat dehydration, one of the leading causes of constipation.
💩One of my tried and true favorites for constipation is castor oil packs. Not only are they great for constipation they are also fantastic for helping to detox the liver. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀