Brief Report: Adherence to Fluid Recommendations in Children Receiving Treatment for Retentive Encopresis

Objective Limited data are available regarding whether children being treated for retentive encopresis are adherent to recommendations to increase their daily fluid intake. The purpose of this study was to examine fluid adherence in children who received treatment for retentive encopresis. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed using diet diary data for 26 children (ages 3–12) who completed a group behavioral intervention for retentive encopresis. Results Mean daily intake of clear fluid increased significantly during treatment and children relied primarily on water and juice to make this dietary change. However, adherence rates to clear fluid goals were <50%. Conclusions Children’s increased clear fluid intake did not equate to high fluid adherence. Children’s high juice consumption is concerning as it could place them at risk for other negative health consequences. Future research should examine whether enhanced fluid education and use of behavior change strategies yield higher fluid adherence. Key words adherence; encopresis; nutrition. Recommendations to increase clear fluids (noncaffeinated, nondairy drinks) are frequently included in multi-component treatments for retentive encopresis and attention to fluid intake is important given the combined effects of fluid and fiber on promoting regular, sof