Constipation, Allergies, and Picky Eating

By Ahmet Aybar, MD

Annapolis Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition

. https://www.annapoliskidsgi.com/

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Constipation, Allergies, and Picky Eating

What Moms Should Know About Digestive Red Flags

When it comes to your child’s health, no one notices the subtle signs of trouble more quickly than a parent—especially moms. If your child struggles with chronic constipation, food allergies, or extreme picky eating, it’s easy to dismiss it as a phase. But sometimes, these common issues are signs of a deeper digestive problem.

As a pediatric gastroenterologist, I often see children after years of struggling with avoidable discomfort. Understanding which symptoms are red flags can help your child get relief sooner and avoid more serious health issues down the road.

Chronic Constipation Isn’t Just “Not Enough Fiber”

Constipation is one of the most frequent concerns I see, and it’s often more complex than just diet. If your child goes more than a few days without a bowel movement, regularly complains of belly pain, or avoids using the bathroom, it may indicate a functional GI disorder—or even early signs of something like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a motility issue.

Long-term constipation can also lead to painful stool withholding, emotional distress, and even changes in bladder function. If you’ve tried increasing fiber and fluids without long-term improvement, it’s time to involve a specialist.

Food Allergies and Sensitivities Can Disrupt Digestion

Many children with undiagnosed food allergies or intolerances experience ongoing digestive issues like bloating, diarrhea, reflux, or poor growth. Conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) or celiac disease can present subtly, with symptoms often written off as “just sensitive stomachs.”

If your child avoids certain foods, complains of pain after eating, or seems unusually fatigued, it’s worth evaluating for food-related GI disorders. Early diagnosis makes a big difference in managing symptoms and protecting long-term health.

Extreme Picky Eating Isn’t
Always Behavioral

Most toddlers go through phases of selective eating, but extreme pickiness—especially when it’s tied to textures, food fears, or gagging—can signal underlying reflux, oral-motor issues, or even sensory GI disorders.

Children with chronic discomfort from eating may avoid food as a way to cope. In these cases, simply encouraging “one more bite” can actually increase anxiety around meals. A specialist can help rule out physical causes and work alongside feeding therapists to support healthy eating habits.

When To Seek Help

If your child’s digestive symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, impact their growth, or interfere with daily life, it’s time to talk to your pediatrician—and ask about a referral to a pediatric GI specialist.

You know your child best. If something feels off, trust your instincts and don’t wait. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and happier, healthier kids.