Constipation is one of the most common digestive diseases encountered by many people. Almost everyone will experience constipation at some point in his or her life.
Often, constipation is caused by poor diet. However, constipation may also be caused by lack of physical activity, medications and other health problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, stroke, and problems in the colon and rectum. Constipation relief, often, can be achieved with proper diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes.
Many people think that they are constipated because they do not have bowel movement everyday. Fact is, bowel movement may be different from person to person. Some people may have normal bowel movement three times a day and some may eliminate stool three times a week. The foods you eat, how much you exercise, and other factors can affect your bowel habits.
Constipation and the High Fiber Diet Connection
People eating a high-fiber (fibre) diet are less likely to have constipation, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). Constipation is most often caused by a diet poor in fiber or a diet high in fats, such as cheese, eggs, and meats.
Dietary fibers can be found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and wheat bran. These food fibers cannot be digested by the digestive tract. However, these dietary fibers help form bulk and soften the stool. In a way, these fibers help prevent hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass during bowel movement.
Studies have shown that a diet high in dietary fibers helps promote regularity of bowel movement among others.
While a high fiber diet is recommended, increasing fiber intake too quickly can cause problems. It may cause gas, bloating, and abdominal cramping. To prevent this, experts recommend eating dietary fibers slowly or a little at a time to allow the digestive system to get used to it. Also, drinking enough liquids is advised.
Constipation caused by other health conditions may require other medical treatments. Most people experiencing mild constipation do not need laxatives. However, for people with chronic or long-term constipation, the doctor may recommend laxatives for a limited amount of time.
With proper diet, drinking enough fluids, and exercise, you’re on your way to a constipation relief.
More Information on Constipation:
Related Topics:
Resources:
Constipation. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC)
What I need to know about Constipation. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
Page Last Revised: August 2, 2012
[Top of Page]
Often, constipation is caused by poor diet. However, constipation may also be caused by lack of physical activity, medications and other health problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, stroke, and problems in the colon and rectum. Constipation relief, often, can be achieved with proper diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes.
Many people think that they are constipated because they do not have bowel movement everyday. Fact is, bowel movement may be different from person to person. Some people may have normal bowel movement three times a day and some may eliminate stool three times a week. The foods you eat, how much you exercise, and other factors can affect your bowel habits.
Constipation and the High Fiber Diet Connection
People eating a high-fiber (fibre) diet are less likely to have constipation, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). Constipation is most often caused by a diet poor in fiber or a diet high in fats, such as cheese, eggs, and meats.
Dietary fibers can be found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and wheat bran. These food fibers cannot be digested by the digestive tract. However, these dietary fibers help form bulk and soften the stool. In a way, these fibers help prevent hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass during bowel movement.
Studies have shown that a diet high in dietary fibers helps promote regularity of bowel movement among others.
While a high fiber diet is recommended, increasing fiber intake too quickly can cause problems. It may cause gas, bloating, and abdominal cramping. To prevent this, experts recommend eating dietary fibers slowly or a little at a time to allow the digestive system to get used to it. Also, drinking enough liquids is advised.
Constipation caused by other health conditions may require other medical treatments. Most people experiencing mild constipation do not need laxatives. However, for people with chronic or long-term constipation, the doctor may recommend laxatives for a limited amount of time.
With proper diet, drinking enough fluids, and exercise, you’re on your way to a constipation relief.
More Information on Constipation:
Related Topics:
- About Dietary Fibers
- Different Types of Dietary Fibers
- Role of Dietary Fibers on Regularity of Bowel Movement
Resources:
Constipation. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC)
What I need to know about Constipation. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
Page Last Revised: August 2, 2012
[Top of Page]
