Is Chronic Constipation Related to Food Sensitivity in Young Children?

Profound oral sensory processing among preschool-aged children may lead to chronic constipation, according to results of a new study.¹ The findings suggest that children with chronic constipation are often picky eaters who may be overly sensitive to food textures, tastes, or odors, and have an exaggerated response to noises, bright lights, or other sensory stimuli.

“On the surface, the association between oral processing and constipation may not seem intuitive,” said Mark Fishbein, MD, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, and senior author of the study. “However, increased sensory sensitivity can create discomfort and lead to avoidance, and we see that response in both food refusal and in the toileting behaviors of children with chronic constipation.”²

To evaluate the connection, Fishbein and colleagues compared the sensory processing patterns of 66 participants aged 3 to 5 years with chronic constipation with patterns of 66 participants without chronic constipation.

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By evaluating how sensory profiles correlated with atypical toileting behaviors, the researchers found that children with chronic constipation have increased responses to sensory stimuli and increased avoidance behaviors.

In addition, intensive oral sensory processing by sensitivity to food textures, tastes, or odors was the most significant predictive factor to withhold stool or avoid using the bathroom.

“Our study offers an expanded tool kit to clinicians who care for children with chronic constipation,” said Fishbein. “Comprehensive care of these children should include consideration of sensory issues and possible referral to occupational therapy.”²

—Colleen Murphy

References:

1. Little LM, Benton K, Manuel-Rubio M, Saps M, Fishbein M. Contribution of sensory processing to chronic constipation in preschool children [published online April 18, 2019]. J Pediatr. doi:10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.03.020.
2. Preschoolers with chronic constipation tend to be picky eaters [press release]. Chicago, IL: Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago; April 18, 2019. https://www.newswise.com/articles/preschoolers-with-chronic-constipation-tend-to-be-picky-eaters. Accessed April 18, 2019.