Many fresh fruits and vegetables are high in fiber. Prunes and raisins are particularly high in fiber. In addition, supplemental fiber preparations such as Metamucil, Fiberall and Citrucel can be helpful as they make the stools absorb more water, allowing them to move gently through the intestines. Try giving your child mineral oil. This remedy is somewhat controversial, but in my practice, I ve found it s one of the best treatments and is generally safe.
Mineral oil coats the stool and helps it slide easily through the intestines.
At one time, it was thought that it blocked the absorption of important minerals through the intestinal wall, but this was recently found not to be the case. In rare instances, it has caused pneumonia, but only in children who were unable to swallow properly. Thereafter, increase the dosage by 1 teaspoon every other day until the child is passing soft stool and any anal fissures have healed. Encourage your child to sit on the toilet after meals. Children who have experienced painful bowel movements are often reluctant to sit on the toilet.