School Stress and IBS in Children

Toilet troubles at school

It begins when the children learn to consciously control their bowel movements. When the little ones begin to hold back their stool because they find the school toilet disgusting or would rather play outside than spend time on the toilet. This results in the thickening and hardening of their stool. The longer it is held back, the more difficult and painful it becomes to expel the dry stool-mass. Thus, the fear of such an unpleasant “sitting” can lead to a vicious cycle. Parents should therefore act in a timely manner: natural preparations such as papaya as well as prebiotics from the pharmacy help to soothingly loosen the constipation. When the belly pinches, warm baths can act in a supportive manner and mum and dad can massage a painful belly in circular motions. When it comes to our smallest children, it can help if a parent holds their feet and moves the legs through the air as if the child were pedalling on a bicycle. Older children should simply be sent out to play in the fresh air. This not only reduces stress, but also stimulates gut movement. It is also very important to plan a child’s daily routine so that there is enough time for trips to the toilet; especially after breakfast.

Long term gut problems

If stress becomes a constant companion, then it can lead to IBS in children. In this case, diarrhoea and constipation alternate because the gut flora has become imbalanced. The brain learns to perceive pain in the stomach and gut more intensely. This way normal digestive processes are overinterpreted and the body goes into a state of alert. Help your little ones by reading together about fantasy adventures to distract the children from their daily struggles and also fight stress. Probiotics for children are also recommended for stressful times when the gut is effected.