If your toddler is holding their poop or struggling with constipation during potty training, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common (and frustrating!) bumps in the road for many parents. A backed-up tummy can make potty training feel impossible—and painful poops can lead to even more resistance.
So why is constipation so common during potty training?
👉 Some kids are afraid to poop on the toilet and will hold it in—causing harder, more uncomfortable poops.
👉 Changes in routine, new food habits, or stress can all impact their digestion.
👉 Diet plays a HUGE role—and the good news is, there are simple foods you can add that can make a big difference!
Here are 4 gut-friendly foods to support your toddler’s digestion and help keep things moving:
1. Pears 🍐
Pears are packed with both soluble and insoluble fiber—and contain sorbitol, a natural sugar that can help soften stool. Serve them sliced with the peel on (where most of the fiber lives!) or baked for a softer texture that’s easier for toddlers to eat.
Tip: Offer pear slices with a little nut butter or toss them into a smoothie.
2. Prunes (and other “P” fruits) 🍑
The four magic “P” fruits—prunes, pears, plums, and peaches—are all excellent for constipation. Prunes especially are high in fiber and sorbitol, making them nature’s gentle laxative. Many toddlers love prune puree or prune pouches.
Tip: If they’re resistant to prunes, try blending them into a muffin recipe or mixing a spoonful into oatmeal.
3. Chia Seeds 🌱
These tiny seeds are a fiber powerhouse! Just one tablespoon contains about 5 grams of fiber. When soaked in liquid, they create a gel-like texture that helps move stool through the intestines more easily.
Tip: Mix them into yogurt, applesauce, or make a simple chia pudding with milk and a splash of vanilla.
4. Sweet Potatoes 🍠
Not only are they delicious and toddler-approved, sweet potatoes are rich in both soluble fiber and resistant starch. These help feed the good bacteria in the gut and support smoother digestion.
Tip: Roasted sweet potato cubes, mashed sweet potatoes, or even sweet potato pancakes are all easy wins!
5. Kefir & Yogurt 🥣
These probiotic-rich foods are excellent for gut health! Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains more strains of good bacteria than yogurt, but both can help restore a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion. Probiotics help break down food and keep things moving—especially helpful when your toddler is feeling backed up.
Tip: Look for plain, full-fat versions with no added sugar. Mix in fruit or a drizzle of honey (for kids over age 1) to sweeten it naturally. Many kids love kefir in smoothies or yogurt bowls!
6. Begin Health’s Growing Up Prebiotics 💡
This kid-friendly, high-quality prebiotic blend is designed specifically for toddlers and growing kids. It helps nourish their gut microbiome and feeds the beneficial bacteria that support:
✔️ Softer stools
✔️ Better regularity
✔️ Digestive comfort
✨ And bonus—it’s tasteless and mixes right into their food or drink!
If you’re dealing with withholding or constipation during potty training, this can be a game changer. I love recommending it to parents who are looking for an easy and gentle way to support their child’s gut health.
👉 Use code ITSPOTTYTIME for 10% off your purchase at Begin Health
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Water! 💧
Fiber works best when it’s paired with enough fluid. Encourage your child to sip water throughout the day to help fiber do its job and keep everything flowing smoothly.
Constipation is tough on toddlers—and on parents. But with the right foods and a little patience, you can support your child’s digestion and set them up for success on the potty.
If you’re feeling stuck in the potty training process (especially if poop struggles are holding your child back), you’re not alone. I created my Potty Training Digital Course to walk you through everything you need—from setting the stage to handling resistance and regressions. You’ll get expert-backed strategies, real-mom tips, and the confidence to guide your child through it all.
💻 Check out the course here → HERE
