Childhood Constipation: The What and Why
Daily bowel movements are a functional medicine staple. Join senior ReMed naturopath Anna MacWilliams as she details why it's so important; what a normal poo looks like and the benefits that restoring healthy bowel function can have on mental health and neurological conditions, including PANS, PANDAS and anxiety.
Covered in This Episode
00:44 Meet Anna: Paediatric Constipation Expert
Introduction to Anna McWilliams, her expertise in paediatric health, and why constipation is such a common issue in children.
1:08 Understanding Constipation in Children
Why constipation is often overlooked, how it presents differently in kids, and the misconceptions around what’s considered normal.
2:38 The Role of Bowel Movements and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of constipation beyond just infrequent stools, including behavioural and physical indicators.
4:49 The Importance of Bowel Movements
Why regular bowel movements are essential for detoxification, digestion, and overall health, and why missing a day is not ideal.
8:13 Challenges with Laxatives and Long-Term Use
The role of laxatives, why they’re often overused in children, and how they don’t address the root cause of constipation.
10:10 Investigating the Root Causes of Constipation
Exploring the deeper causes, including digestion, hydration, nutrient deficiencies, microbiome imbalances, and stress.
14:30 Diet, Digestion, and Lifestyle Factors
How food choices, hydration, digestive function, and lifestyle habits impact bowel health and how to improve them.
29:11 Emotional and Psychological Connections
The link between emotions, anxiety, and constipation, and how stress, control, and emotional holding patterns can affect digestion.
Resources and Links
Book with ReMed Naturopath, Anna: Naturopath, Anna MacWilliams is passionate about improving the health of children – with two boys of her own, she understands firsthand the juggles of a parent and applies naturopathic treatment in a practical and supportive way. Having completed two science degrees, Anna blends naturopathy and a love of science with the traditional knowledge of nutrition and herbal medicine. Her goal with every patient is comprehensive assessment and individualised treatment, that will get lasting results in a holistic approach. Anna has gone on to do extensive studies
