Can a chicory fiber ease toddler constipation?

NCT ID NCT03941925

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 12, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether a prebiotic fiber from chicory, called fructans, can improve bowel habits in young children aged 1 to 3 with constipation. Half of the 100 participants will receive the prebiotic daily for four weeks, while the other half gets a placebo. Parents will track stool consistency, frequency, and amount in a daily diary to see if the fiber helps.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Prebiotic fructans (chicory-derived inulin-type)
What this could lead to: If effective, this could offer a gentle, natural dietary supplement to ease constipation in young children, potentially reducing reliance on laxatives.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage trial with a modest size, and results may not apply to all children. The supplement could cause digestive discomfort like gas or bloating.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

constipation disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CONSTIPATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shanghai Xinhua Hospital, affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine

Shanghai, China

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.