Addressing a Common Potty Training Challenge
This post is in partnership with Hiya. I only endorse products I believe in.
Ah, the joys of parenting, right? When it's not the late-night lullabies, it's the potty training escapades, complete with the not-so-glamorous sidekick: toddler tummy troubles 💩 It's surprisingly common, causing about 1 in every 20 pediatric visits. Trust me, I've been there – spending a month navigating this tricky phase with my 3-year-old. While it's a bit of a sticky situation (pun intended!), I've discovered some tried-and-true remedies. So, let's dive into these tips and tricks to smooth out this bumpy ride! 🚽
Remedy #1: Get The Best Kids Probiotic
Studies have shown probiotics can aid in maintaining regular bowel movements. That's why I chose Hiya daily probiotics for my son. TLDR I tested Hiya Probiotics, Digestive Advantage Kids, Culturelle Kids and SmartyPants Kids Probiotics and Hiya stood out by far. From an effectiveness perspective, Hiya has 10 billion CFUs versus 4 billion CFUs in SmartyPants, 1 billion CFUs in Culturelle and just 250 million in Digestive Advantage Kids. Plus it has zero added sugar, which none of these competitors can boast. And Hiya has no gelatin, pectin or wax, again these other brands can’t claim the same.
Hiya Probiotics offer a safe, effective solution with no unnecessary additives. Try Hiya for yourself now at 50% off your first order!
Remedy #2: Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate.
Hydration is key in preventing and treating constipation. Sometimes, a little apple juice mixed with water can encourage your child to drink more. Alternatively, opting for juice products like Honest Organic Juice boxes, which contain no added sugars, is a great way to increase fluid intake healthily.
Remedy #3: Hide Veggies in Meals
Increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables high in fiber is crucial. While it's important to educate your toddler about the benefits of these foods, sneaking extra veggies into their meals can also be effective. Consider trying toddler-friendly recipes that incorporate vegetables, such as one-pot hamburger helper with zucchini, cauliflower mac and cheese, broccoli turkey meatballs, and healthy chocolate muffins with veggies. These options not only boost fiber intake but also make eating vegetables fun and enjoyable for your child.
Remedy #4: Activity & Adventure
Physical activity can significantly help digestion. Simple activities like visiting the local playground or an indoor trampoline center can be fun and effective ways to get your child moving in more ways than one. 💩
Remedy #5: Give Stool Softener
If other remedies aren’t effective, gentle medications like stool softeners can be considered. We had to use Miralax multiple times during our potty training transition months. It’s crucial to consult your pediatrician before administering any medication to ensure safety and proper dosage. And if this doesn’t give the strong push your toddler needs, your doctor might also recommend pediatric laxatives as a next step.
Get ahead of this common struggle with Hiya Probiotics
Dealing with toddler tummy troubles can be a delicate aspect of potty training, but with these remedies, you can help your child navigate this phase more comfortably. Taking a probiotic regularly over the days, weeks, and months will set your toddler up with a healthy gut long-term.