About the Episode:
In this episode of the Modern Mommy Doc Podcast, Dr. Whitney reconnects with longtime friend and colleague Dr. Anne-Ming Yeh—Stanford-trained pediatric gastroenterologist, integrative medicine specialist, and author of Constipation Conquered: A Holistic Guide to Your Child’s Constipation.
Together, they tackle a surprisingly common (and often frustrating) parenting challenge: constipation in kids. Dr. Yeh shares why she wrote her new book, how she blends evidence-based medicine with integrative approaches, and what parents can realistically do to help their kids—from picky toddlers to neurodivergent kids with unique needs.
You’ll learn:
- The truth about common constipation myths (spoiler: laxatives aren’t evil).
- How to know whether your child’s constipation is mild, moderate, or severe—and when to seek specialist care.
- Simple prevention tips: the right balance of fluid before fiber, why leafy greens act like a “broomstick for your gut,” and how bananas might be binding.
- Why the gut-brain connection matters, and how small daily rituals (from tea time to affirmations to Snoop Dogg’s kids’ album!) can actually support digestion.
- The difference between “mush” (softening stool) and “push” (helping the colon’s muscles coordinate), and why some kids may need specialized therapies like biofeedback.
- Why integrative medicine is about both/and—using food as medicine when possible, and leaning on safe medications when necessary.
This conversation is practical, reassuring, and yes—sometimes even funny. It’s a reminder that while poop may not be a glamorous parenting topic, helping kids feel comfortable, confident, and healthy in their bodies is always worth it.
Key Takeaways:
- Constipation is common—and fixable. Kids struggle with it more than we talk about, but with the right strategies, families can find real relief.
- It’s not just about prune juice. Effective care often blends food as medicine (fiber, leafy greens, fluids) with safe, evidence-based medications when needed.
- Mush vs. Push matters. Some kids need stool softeners (“mush”), while others need help coordinating their muscles to pass stool (“push”). Understanding the difference is key.
- Myths aren’t helping. Laxatives aren’t “evil” or addictive; Miralax and magnesium can be safe tools when used under guidance.
- The gut and brain are connected. Stress, anxiety, and routines affect digestion. Building in calming rituals—anything from tea time to affirmations to dancing—can support “rest and digest.”
- Sustainable changes beat quick fixes. Small, realistic dietary and lifestyle adjustments over time help kids develop healthier long-term habits.
- Parents don’t have to choose sides. Integrative medicine means combining the best of conventional care with holistic approaches to meet families where they are.
About Our Guest
Dr. Anne-Ming Yeh, MD, is a Stanford-trained pediatric gastroenterologist and integrative medicine specialist. With decades of experience in both academic medicine and holistic care, she’s passionate about helping families navigate one of the most common (and often overlooked) childhood health issues: constipation.
Her new book,
Constipation Conquered: A Holistic Guide to Your Child’s Constipation, combines evidence-based medicine with practical, approachable strategies parents can use at home. From demystifying myths about laxatives to offering food-based solutions and lifestyle rituals, Dr. Yeh equips families with tools to help their kids feel comfortable, confident, and healthy.
Want to Start Raising Body-Confident Kids Today?
📘 Pre-order the Book
Order your copy of My One-of-a-Kind Body before it launches on October 20, 2025.
👉
www.raisingbodyconfidentkids.com/books
🎁 Claim Your Free Bonus
When you pre-order, you’ll also get access to a FREE video mini-course with five bite-sized lessons for parents. In just 25 minutes, you’ll walk away with:
- Simple, script-style ways to respond when your kid says, “I hate my thighs”
- How to talk about health without weight talk
- What to do when your own inner critic shows up
- How to interrupt diet culture at home
- The first step to raising a body-confident kid—even if you didn’t grow up as one
📩Subscribe to The Modern Mommy Doc Podcast for more episodes on parenting with confidence and clarity. Leave a review using the hashtag #ModernMommyDoc.
