Primary prevention
To prevent chronic constipation and faecal impaction, a diet high in fibre and adequate fluid intake should be encouraged, together with an active lifestyle and good toileting habits.
A recommended amount of daily fibre intake (in grams) for normal stooling is equivalent to the child's age plus 5 g/day (e.g., a 17-year-old should consume 22 g/day).[14]
Secondary prevention
Patients should be encouraged to continue good dietary habits: ensuring free daily water intake to at least 4 to 8 glasses per day and daily intake of fibre (suggested number of grams of fibre per day equals patient age plus 5), and consuming 5 fruits or vegetables per day.[12] The use of soluble or insoluble fibre supplementation is decided on a case-by-case basis. Soluble fibres tend to bulk the stool, while insoluble fibres tend to make the stool looser. Soluble fibres (e.g., psyllium, pectin) are therefore preferred, though their effectiveness is inconsistent and one meta-analysis found that there is no evidence to support the prescription of fibre supplementation in the diet of constipated children.[27][28]
They should take frequent toilet breaks during the day, ideally after each meal.
When patients have the urge to have a bowel movement, they should not suppress it for long periods of time and should make a timely toilet visit when the urge arises.
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