Wed. Mar 27th, 2024

Signs and Symptoms of Constipation

Constipation refers to the process in which an individual has difficulty passing out stool.  One is also classified as constipated if he or she passes stools less than three times a week. Many people across the world suffer from constipation albeit with silence. The disease is most common in children and adults because its frequency increases at the extremes of ages. Some signs that an individual with constipation may show include a feeling of incomplete defecation, and manual removal of stools and hard stools. Other signs include rectal bleeding, pain when defecating, and occasionally back pain.

Management of Constipation

The disorder is managed through modification of lifestyle and eating appropriate meals. Our major focus for today will be on foods that prevent one from being constipated. In general, increasing the amount of fiber and increased hydration has been known to improve the condition. Reducing foods and other substances that have a constipating effect is also essential.

Fruits

Fruits offer a better solution to constipation because of the fibers they contain. There are two types of fibers; soluble fibers and insoluble fibers. Soluble fiber increases the water content of the stools by attracting water from the constipationintestines. This makes the movement of the stool more efficient due to reduced friction. The insoluble fibers act by adding bulk to the stool thereby helping in the propelling of the stool. Increasing fruit intake will help add fiber to the diet thereby avoiding being constipated. A few examples of fruits that are helpful include apples, pears, watermelons, and bananas among others. Others fruits include oranges, berries, and tangerines.

Vegetables and Constipation

Increasing the amount of vegetable intake is also quite important in managing constipation. Green vegetables such as kale and spinach are very important in managing the condition. Other important vegetables that can help include broccoli, Brussels, carrots, and potatoes.

Water

Regularly drinking water has been proven to be an effective and efficient way of preventing and to some extent relieving a person when they are constipated. It is recommended that constipationindividuals should reduce their intake of alcohol, coffee, and soda drinks since they can worsen the situation.  Avoiding medications that have the side effects of constipation is necessary and it is important to inform your physician of the condition.

Whole Grain Cereals and Constipation

constipationAnother important way of eliminating constipation is by taking whole-grain meals and cereals. Cereals include rice, sorghum, barley wheat, maize, millet, oats, and amaranth. It is important to avoid processed products because when processed they lose the fiber value which is most important when one is constipated.

Other Ways of Reducing Constipation.

Most importantly, lifestyle modifications in which individuals avoid fast foods and fries are necessary. Another important thing is avoiding the unhealthy habit of holding stools for a longer period of time. This will help in preventing fecal compaction in the rectum and the sigmoid colon. Increasing the amount of water taken daily is also important and can not be underestimated. Water acts as a solvent and will help in solving the compacted wastes enabling easy release.

By Duncan

Duncan, a licensed and registered dietitian (RD), offers tailored nutrition services for optimal health. With a degree in Foods Nutrition and Dietetics, 13 years of experience, and trusted expertise, he helps clients through his Nutrition Diet Facts platform.

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