– Dr. Tarun Singh is a Haryana-based pediatrician, newborn specialist, and a pediatric gastroenterology expert

My daughter frequently complains of stomach pain. But I haven’t been able to identify any clear connection to her diet — she isn’t eating anything unusually spicy, oily, or junk food-heavy. Should I be worried?

— Vishwam D, Mumbai

Most stomach aches in children are harmless and may be caused by indigestion, constipation, viral infections, flatulence, or stress. However, persistent or severe pain should not be ignored. Consult a pediatrician if stomach pain is accompanied by repeated vomiting, high fever, blood in stools, persistent diarrhea, severe abdominal swelling, inability to walk due to pain, or pain that settles in the lower right side of the abdomen, as these may indicate a more serious condition such as appendicitis.

My ten-year-old daughter suffers from constipation. She eats normal home food and junk food sometimes. Please suggest home remedies to relieve her constipation naturally and improve her digestive health.

— Faizal Mohammed, Chennai

Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems of children. Encourage your daughter to drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and remain physically active. Establish a regular toilet routine, especially after meals, and avoid delaying the urge to go. Avoid giving laxatives without consulting your pediatrician, as the medication will depend on your child’s age and underlying causes. Also, restrict her from eating junk food excessively.

My child has been suffering vomiting and diarrhea. I’ve been keeping her hydrated and giving her light, easy-to-digest foods, but she still hasn’t fully recovered. Should I consult a doctor?

— Divya Mittal, Pune

Most vomiting/diarrhea episodes are caused by viral gastroenteritis and improve within a few days with adequate hydration. Offer frequent small sips of oral rehydration solution (ORS) to prevent dehydration and continue age-appropriate feeding. Consult your pediatrician if your child is younger than six months, refuses to drink liquids, has persistent vomiting, blood in vomit or stools, reduced urine output, excessive sleepiness, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, and lethargy.

My family has a history of digestive disorders. What preventive measures — dietary or lifestyle — can help protect my child’s digestive health and minimize recurring stomach problems?

— Sheetal Kheda, Delhi

Good digestive health begins with healthy daily habits. Provide your child a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and yogurt; ensure adequate water intake; encourage regular physical activity, and maintain good hand hygiene before meals and after using the toilet. Avoid excessive junk food, sugary drinks consumption, and unnecessary antibiotics. Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up to date — especially the rotavirus vaccine in infancy — to prevent serious gastrointestinal infections. A healthy gut is the foundation of a healthy child. Most digestive problems can be prevented through balanced nutrition, good hygiene, timely vaccinations, and early medical consultation.