What is Constipation?
Constipation is a very common condition that affects people of all ages, sizes and races. It usually means that your digestive system isn’t working as regularly or frequently as it should. The severity of constipation varies from person to person.
“One in five adults report that they have constipation1“
Symptoms
- Few bowel movements
- Straining during bowel movements
- Hard or small stools
- Sense of incompleteness
- Swollen or abdominal pain
Some foods that increase constipation
- Dairy products
- Red meat
- Fast food
- Frozen meals
- Processed food
- Caffeine
- High-carbohydrate diet
Causes
- Drastic changes in diet or activities
- Not enough time
- Resisting the urge
- Pregnancy
- Low-fiber diet
- Not drinking enough water
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Some medications (ask your healthcare professional if you are in doubt)
- Hormonal changes (e.g. menopause)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
If you have suffered from constipation for a long time, we recommend you visit your healthcare professional.
