What dietary change should be made for a child experiencing constipation?

Increasing fiber intake is a crucial dietary change for a child experiencing constipation. Fiber plays an essential role in promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. It adds bulk to the stool, making it easier for the intestines to push it through the digestive tract. High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help soften the stool and make it more manageable for a child to pass.

When addressing constipation, it's also vital to ensure that the child maintains adequate fluid intake, as fluids work in conjunction with fiber to help keep the stool soft. Therefore, any recommendation that suggests decreasing fluid intake would be counterproductive to resolving constipation.

Options that suggest increasing protein or decreasing carbohydrates do not directly address the underlying issue. While protein is important for growth and development, it doesn't contribute to alleviating constipation in the same way that fiber does. Similarly, carbohydrates, especially those that are high in fiber (like whole grains), can actually help improve bowel regularity. Therefore, increasing fiber intake is the most effective approach to alleviate constipation in children.