10 Back to School Health Tips for Kids with Digestive Issues

As school bells chime and classrooms come alive with the buzz of eager minds, it's time to gear up for another academic year. 

For parents of children with digestive issues, this transition can bring unique challenges and anxiousness for the whole family. Managing digestive health while ensuring a smooth return to school requires a strategic approach that combines preparation, communication, and thoughtful choices. Read on to explore valuable back-to-school health tips tailored to kids dealing with digestive concerns.

10 Back-to-School Health Tips if Your Kids Struggle with Digestion

For parents of children who grapple with digestive challenges, ensuring a smooth return to the classroom while prioritizing their health requires thoughtful strategies. Check out these 12 tips to support kids with digestion concerns—and their parents.

1. Open Dialogue with School Staff

Before the first day of school, engage in open communication with teachers, school nurses, and other relevant staff members. Share details about your child's digestive issues, potential triggers, and any necessary accommodations. This proactive step helps create a supportive environment where everyone is aware of the situation and can respond appropriately if issues arise.

2. Nutrient-Rich Packed Lunches

Maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial for children with digestive problems. Consider packing nutrient-rich lunches that are gentle on their stomachs. Opt for lean proteins, healthy fats, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Avoid foods high in sugars, artificial additives, and greasy items that could trigger discomfort. Encourage your child to actively participate in choosing lunch options to foster a sense of ownership over their dietary choices.

3. Smart Snacking Choices

Snack time can be a tricky terrain for kids with digestive issues. Keep a supply of gut-friendly snacks like yogurt, nuts, rice cakes, and sliced fruits in the pantry. These options are nourishing and easy on the digestive system. As much as possible, avoid processed snacks that might be heavy on unhealthy fats or additives that could potentially exacerbate discomfort.

4. Hydration Habits

Proper hydration is essential to digestive health. Encourage your child to drink water throughout the day. If they struggle with plain water, infuse it with slices of cucumber, mint, or citrus fruits for a refreshing twist. Limit sugary drinks and carbonated beverages that could lead to GI upset and discomfort.

5. Stress Management Techniques

Everyday stress can trigger or worsen digestive issues in children and adults. Equip your child with stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or simple stretches. Engaging in these practices during breaks can help alleviate anxiousness and promote a calm and comfortable state. Letting your child know their teachers or other adults at school are aware of their needs can also help alleviate everyday stress.

6. Allergy and Sensitivity Awareness

If your child has food allergies or sensitivities that affect their digestive system, ensure school staff is well informed about these triggers. Your child should also understand the risks—teach your child how to read ingredient labels and recognize potential allergens to avoid any accidental consumption.

7. Bathroom Breaks

Make sure your child knows where all the restrooms are at school and feels comfortable asking for bathroom breaks when needed. Regular bathroom breaks are essential for maintaining digestive health and helping to reduce discomfort.

8. Regular Check-ins

Maintain an open line of communication with your child about how they're feeling throughout the school day. Encourage them to share any discomfort or concerns with a trusted adult, so you can address issues promptly and make necessary adjustments to their routine.

9. Inclusion and Empowerment

Educate your child about their digestive issues in an age-appropriate manner. Teach them about the importance of self-care and how to advocate for their needs. Empower them to make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle, both at home and in social settings.

10. Consider Supplements

Discuss supplements for digestion with your child’s integrative pediatrician.* The issues your child deals with will inform which supplements are right for them, but a high-dose kid’s probiotic or a comprehensive digestive enzyme formula for children are often recommended.*

3 Gut-Friendly Lunch Ideas

• Chopped fruit, veggies, hummus and banana muffin (see recipe below)

• Cheese stick, chickpeas with wild rice, chopped fruit and/or veggies, and almonds

• Leftover gluten-free pasta with meat sauce and chopped veggies on the side

If your child is sensitive to raw vegetables, send steamed or sauteed veggies instead.

15-Minute Banana Muffins

Ingredients:

• ⅓ + 1 tbsp. nut or seed butter of your choice (almond, cashew, etc.)

• 1 egg

• 3 small, ripe, mashed bananas

• 1 cup almond flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon vanilla

• Pinch of cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg (optional)

• Pinch of salt

Preparation:

1. Grease your muffin pan and preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a mixing bowl, add nut butter, vanilla, and egg. Mix vigorously.

3. Add mashed banana and mix until smooth.

4. Add almond flour, baking soda, spices (if using) and salt. Mix until there are no lumps.

5. Distribute batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each to ⅔ height.

6. Bake for 12-18 minutes and allow to cool for 5.

7. Enjoy!

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Takeaway

As you gear up for the back-to-school season, remember that with a well-thought-out plan, open communication, and a supportive environment, your child with digestive issues can thrive academically and socially. By focusing on their unique needs and implementing these health tips, you can set the stage for a successful and comfortable school year ahead.