Aoife Hearne: How can I help my three-year-old who suffers from constipation? 

"For more than 90% of children the cause is “functional” rather than a structural or a medical issue. It is commonly triggered by an event such as a child associating pain or discomfort with a bowel movement which then develops into a chronic situation."

Children aged between one and three should aim for 1-1.2lt of fluid per day.  Picture: iStock 

Aoife Hearn

REGISTERED DIETICIAN

My three-year-old son suffers from constipation — it’s been an issue since he was a baby. I encourage him to drink water and finish his vegetables, but he still finds it difficult to pass a stool. What would you suggest?