Constipation is Caused By Many Different Things

Constipation is a gastrointestinal condition that occurs when an individual is unable to pass stools less than three times a week. But this is not a clear and concise rule. Bowel movements are different with everybody and what may be normal for one person, may not be for another. As long as an individual’s normal pattern isn’t out of sync, there shouldn’t be any issues with constipation. Those with constipation often experience the following: difficulty passing stools, expelling dry and hard stools, and the feeling that the bowels were not fully emptied. Other symptoms include feelings of bloat, stomach aches, cramps, and nausea. Constipation is a common ailment that afflicts millions of people each year. It can be acute or chronic. The elderly and pregnant women are particularly prone to developing constipation. There are various reasons why constipation occurs. Poor lifestyle habits, certain medications, and underlying diseases may be the culprit.

1- Poor Diet

Many times, constipation can be caused by having an unhealthy diet. Those who eat a lot of meat and dairy are susceptible to constipation. Also, junk food and fast food are often loaded with fats and contain no fiber or nutrients needed to promote a healthy gut. Consuming enough dietary fiber daily is important because fiber helps to soften up stools, allowing the waste to pass through more easily. Including foods with a high fiber content will help eliminate any potential difficulties in passing bowel movements. Add almonds, leafy greens, vegetables, oranges, apples, prunes, and whole-grain bread to your diet to decrease the chances of becoming constipated. Refrain from eating too many processed snacks or meals. Opt for a home-cooked meal loaded with vegetables and grains.

2 - Lack of Exercise

Staying fit and getting a consistent amount of exercise is not only good for losing weight and staying strong. It is beneficial for preventing and relieving constipation. Individuals who are less likely to exercise are more likely to become constipated. The habitual inactivity of a person may cause food to move down the intestines slower and leave the person feeling backed up. Also, exercise is important because the colon is very responsive to activity. When a person is physically active (i.e. always jumping and running around), it helps to stimulate the bowels, making it easier to pass stools later on. Individuals who are active also have an easier time defecating because their abdominal muscles are stronger and this helps them push out excrement with ease.

3 - Dehydration

When an individual isn’t drinking enough water, they become dehydrated. Dehydration can cause many unwanted side effects, such as constipation. Everybody needs to drink an adequate amount of water because it helps the body digest food and carries the waste into the colon. When the body doesn’t have enough water, the stools become hard and dry. When the stools are in this state, it is difficult for them to pass through the colon. Therefore, staying hydrated is important. Make an effort to drink the recommended eight 8 oz cups of water each day to prevent being backed up.

.4-Medications

There are some medications that can cause constipation. Pain relievers are effective in relieving severe pain. But they also slow down the digestive system, making the body’s waste pass through slower. This results in hard and dry stools that are difficult to excrete. Other medications that cause constipation are anti-nausea meds, iron supplements, tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, NSAIDs, and urinary incontinence medications. Blood pressure medications are also known to cause constipation.

5-Medical Conditions and Illnesses

Constipation may also be a symptom of a more serious health issue. There are some illnesses that affect the colon and consequently, hinder or stop the normal flow of stools from being released. Colon cancer, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, diverticulitis, and tumors are some examples of medical diseases that affect the colon and rectum. Individuals with a neurological condition, such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, are vulnerable to constipation too. A nerve disease may have damaged the nerves located near the lower part of the colon and as a result, affected the way waste is carried out of the colon.