Foods That Cause Constipation

Constipation is caused when the bowel is clogged making it difficult for the stools to pass. It could be chronic or set in all of a sudden. It could be accompanied with other symptoms. Constipation can cause problems like rectal bleeding, colon prolapse and hemorrhoids.

An Overview of Constipation Causes

The main cause of constipation is a diet that is not balanced. Fiber prevents the colon from absorbing water from the digested food by trapping water within it, like a sponge. Water in stools makes them softer and bulkier, making them easy to excrete. Water also improves mucus production in the colon. Mucus is an essential part of the colon lining and lubricates it.

Fiber is an important component of most naturally occurring foods while processing food gets rid of fiber. While they may have soluble fiber which is good for preventing accumulation of bad cholesterol, they are devoid of insoluble fiber or roughage. Dehydration can also make stools hard. Individuals on medicines like diuretics are often constipated during the course of medication. Ironically constipation is also caused due to abuse of laxatives. The body becomes dependent on laxatives for making stools softer and pushing them out.

Foods That Cause Constipation

1. Meat – Meat is rich in protein but lacks dietary fiber. Its digestion takes long time as proteins are complex structures. As a result, their transit time is lower than other foods. If the colon is not lubricated adequately or if the body is dehydrated, meat may remain partially digested causing an intestinal block. Fatty meat can also make digestion difficult. If it is not absorbed properly, the fat can line the walls of the colon.

2. Banana not fully ripe – If you consume banana that is not fully ripe, it can make constipation worse. Though it is a rich source of carbohydrates, it must not be consumed when the body is dehydrated excessively, for instance after sport or physical activity.

3. Diary products – Diary products like milk and cheese though nutritious, can worsen constipation.

4. Fatty foods – Fatty foods which include dairy products and junk food take a toll on digestion. They move slowly through the digestive tract and stress the enzyme production. This makes an individual feel bloated. Junk foods are low on nutrition and have a blocking effect. They are not easily broken down. They contain very little insoluble fiber, resulting in formation of compact dense stools, which can tear the colon and rectal lining.

5. Alcohol, though not a food, when ingested causes a host of problems. It is one of the major causes of cancers and colon diseases. It causes dehydration and liver conditions which result in colored stools and constipation. Alcohol also damages the lining of the colon, making stool transit very painful. This over a period of time undergoes mutation and become cancerous.

6. Coffee is another beverage that is linked to constipation. Coffee dehydrates the body as it causes frequent urination. It also reduces the effectiveness of fiber in absorbing water.

Colon cleansing prevents accumulation of wastes, which is a major cause of constipation. Colon cleansers can be regularly used without any side effects. Preventing constipation is easier than undergoing treatment.