Prunes are dried European plums. Due to their natural laxative properties, you can use prune juice to treat constipation in toddlers. Since children mostly develop digestion problems due to the consumption (or lack) of specific foods, adding prune juice to their diet can help prevent constipation. In addition, it is rich in nutrients and minerals, thus promoting their overall health. Read on to know more about the causes of constipation in children, the role of prune juice in treating constipation in children, and some tasty recipes to make prune juice at home.
Causes Of Constipation In Toddlers
There are several causes of constipation in toddlers, but the most prominent cause is diet. Constipation due to food sensitivities or imbalance in gut flora lasts longer. Other causes include:
Inadequate water intake.
Lack of intake of fiber, vegetables, and fruits.
Excess intake of white flour foods or carbohydrates.
Excess intake of cold foods such as frozen yogurt or ice-cream.
Excess intake of pasteurized dairy products.
So making dietary changes can help treat your little one’s constipation effectively. We recognize this can be easier said than done when you have a toddler who refuses to comply with a healthier diet.
What Is Prune Juice?
Prunus Domestica is the scientific name of European plum, which is easily available and helps cure several health conditions. Prune juice is prepared by soaking dried plum fruit in steam and then mixing it in a blender. Prune juice is natural, so it is a popular laxative for treating constipation in toddlers. Also, prunes are rich in minerals and vitamins, so they promote your toddler’s overall health.
Prune Juice For Constipation In Toddlers
Prunes are mild stimulants. Prune juice contains dihydroxyphenylisatin and dietary fiber, which help your toddler have normal and smooth bowel movements. Sorbital and fiber in the juice soften the stool and prevent the symptoms of constipation. The juice helps to bring water into the colon, so the stool can move easier. Healthy enzymes and fiber in prune juice get your toddler’s digestive tract back on the track and promotes digestion after curing constipation. Also, consuming prune juice causes no problems in the colon of toddlers. Besides, prune juice is rich in antioxidants that combat cell-damaging free radicals. Offer a glass of prune juice before going to bed. (1)
How To Prepare Prune Juice For Toddler Constipation?
You can prepare prune juice, or you blend prunes with other nutritious fruits and prepare a prune juice smoothie. Here are some prominent recipes of prune juice.
1. Pure prune juice
You Will Need:
A handful of prunes
½ fresh lemon
1 cup of water
How To:
2. Prune-mango smoothie
You Will Need:
One mango, peeled
Five prunes, chopped
One orange, peeled
100 gms of yogurt
200 ml milk (monitor closely for dairy sensitivity)
How To:
3. Prune juice smoothie with coconut milk and berries
You Will Need:
½ cup of pure coconut milk
¼ cup of mixed berries, all frozen
One leaf of kale
½ cup of pure prune juice
One tablespoon of flax seeds
How To:
