Dietetic treatment of functional constipation in children: a scoping review with narrative summary

Functional constipation is one of the most common gastroenterological diagnoses in paediatric patients. It is characterized by infrequent, painful, and hard stools and frequently may be accompanied by abdominal pain and faecal incontinence. According to international guidelines, the first steps in the treatment of children with functional constipation include initial disimpaction followed by maintenance treatment with polyethylene glycol and other laxatives, education and recommendations for fibre, fluids and physical activity. Parents of children with functional constipation are hesitant to administer medications for prolonged periods due to a fear of dependence on laxatives and perceived side effects of stool softeners. Nurses are less likely than doctors to use pharmacologic options to treat chronic constipation, preferring diet and lifestyle modifications. However, there is a shortage of high-quality studies on the dietetic treatment of functional constipation in children.

This article outlines the role of diet in preventing and managing functional constipation in children and offers practical advice for medical professionals caring for this group of patients. The aim of the paper is to provide practical and reliable advice on this topic, which is often dismissed with a statement about the need for increased fibre intake. Numerous tips have been compiled on choosing certain vegetables, fruit and grains while avoiding others, culinary techniques and recipes, the use of culinary heritage and traditional medicine insights.