Question:
When my husband misses his daily BM, he complains that he’s constipated. Don’t
you think that’s a bit of an exaggeration?
Answer:
Your husband is not alone. A lot of people believe they are constipated if they
don’t go every day. The clinical definition of constipation is any two of the
following symptoms for at least 12 weeks (not necessarily consecutive) in the
previous year: straining during bowel movements; lumpy or hard stool; sensation
of obstruction or incomplete evacuation; fewer than three bowel movements per
week.
Those
reporting constipation most often are women and adults age 65 and over.
Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints in the
United States.
Common
causes of constipation include: insufficient intake of fiber and liquids; lack
of exercise; medications; older age, and abuse of laxatives.
The
most common cause of constipation is a diet low in fiber and high in fats. The
bulk and soft texture of fiber help prevent hard, dry stools that
are difficult to pass. Fiber is the part of fruits, vegetables, and
grains that the body cannot digest. Keep in mind that many refined and
processed foods we eat have the natural fiber removed.
Many
seniors eat a low-fiber diet that causes constipation. Some lose interest in
eating and choose convenience foods low in fiber. Others have difficulties
chewing or swallowing; this leads them to eat soft processed foods low in
fiber.
Liquids
add bulk to stools making bowel movements softer and easier to pass. People who
are constipated should drink about eight 8-ounce glasses of liquids a day.
Avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol, because they dehydrate.
Not
enough exercise can lead to constipation, although doctors do not know why.
If
you want to move your bowels, move your body.
Some
medications can cause constipation. They include: pain medications (especially
narcotics); antacids
that contain aluminum and calcium; blood pressure medications (calcium channel
blockers); antiparkinson drugs; antispasmodics; antidepressants;
iron supplements; diuretics, and anticonvulsants.
Aging
may affect bowel regularity because a slower metabolism results in less
intestinal activity and muscle tone.
Laxatives
usually are not necessary to treat constipation and can be habit-forming. The
colon begins to rely on laxatives to bring on bowel movements. Over time,
laxatives can damage nerve cells in the colon and interfere with the colon’s
natural ability to contract. For the same reason, regular use of enemas also
can lead to a loss of normal bowel function.
Most
people with constipation can be treated with changes in diet and exercise. A
diet with 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day is recommended.
Other
changes that can help include drinking enough liquids, engaging in daily exercise,
and reserving enough time to have a bowel movement. In addition, the urge to
have a bowel movement should not be ignored.
For those who have made diet and lifestyle
changes and still are constipated, doctors may recommend laxatives or enemas
for a limited time.
If
you have a question, please write to fred@healthygeezer.com
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© 2008 by Fred Cicetti