Using flaxseed oil for constipation

I use flaxseed oil regularly. My 3 year old granddaughter has been constipated so I gave her a tsp. of flaxseed oil to help her go to the bathroom she hasn't gone for about 4 days. Is this okay or can we give her more? Thank you

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Using flaxseed oil for constipation

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Nov 12, 2009
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by: Kevin

I think there's a misconception that flaxseed oil helps relieve constipation. This is similar to the old home remedy that we can use cod liver oil for constipation. This may stem from the idea that drinking too much of an oily drink will cause diarrhea.

While I'm not a doctor, I think the primary causes of constipation are a poor diet with little to no fiber, not drinking enough water and lack of exercise. While flaxseed oil and cod liver oil contain essential fatty acids, they don't contain any fiber so I don't think they will reduce or treat constipation.

To treat or reduce constipation, you could try eating more high fiber foods. For example, one cup of cooked split peas contains 16 grams of fiber or one cup of raspberries has 8 grams of fiber. I noticed it took me a couple of days of increasing my fiber intake before I saw a decrease in constipation. As always, you should see your doctor if the condition is not resolved in a few days. Good luck and hope this information helps you.

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