Constipation is the most common cause of abdominal pain in kids.

Signs include less frequent bowel movements or hard, dry stools.

Talk to your child’s doctor before using any over-the-counter remedies.

sad toddler touching face on potty pooping

A change in diet, plenty of water, and exercise can help.

Also, address any anxiety she might have about using the toilet.

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American Academy of Pediatrics.http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/abdominal/pages/Constipation.aspxOpens a new window[Accessed June 2020]

AAP.

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Where we stand: Fruit juice.

American Academy of Pediatrics.http://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Where-We-Stand-Fruit-Juice.aspxOpens a new window[Accessed June 2020]

Heyman MB, et al.

Fruit juice in infants, children, and adolescents: Current recommendations.

Your 17-month-old’s social and emotional development: Feeling negative

Constipation in infants and children.http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003125.htmOpens a new window[Accessed June 2020]

Nemours Foundation.

Constipation.http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/constipation.htmlOpens a new window[Accessed June 2020]

NIDDKD.

Constipation in infants and children: Evaluation.http://www.uptodate.com/contents/constipation-in-children-etiology-and-diagnosisOpens a new window[Accessed June 2020]

USDA.

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All about the dairy group.

U.S. Department of Agriculture.https://www.choosemyplate.gov/eathealthy/dairyOpens a new window[Accessed June 2020]

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Darienne Hosley Stewart