COMMON CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION
October 26, 2011
by Dorothy Valliancourt, RNET, edited by B. Brewer for UOAA
Drinking too little water - Water is the best drink. We need at least two quarts of liquids a day depending on your profile, i.e., ileostomates, urostomates, colostomates and those on chemotherapy may need more.
Eating too little fiber - Fiber adds bulk to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It also speeds up transit time moving the stool down and out fast. We need 30-40 grams of fiber a day.
Lack of exercise - Exercise stimulates the contractions of the intestines.
Medication - Many drugs can cause constipation. Most common are: calcium or iron supplements; diuretics, antidepressants, anticancer drugs; pain killers; codeine, aluminum-based antacids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammation drugs like ibuprofen, and high blood pressure medications.
