Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems in the U.S. An estimated 16 out of 100 American adults experience symptoms of constipation, and 33 out of 100 adults over the age of 60 have constipation symptoms.
Understanding what causes constipation, to begin with, can help you avoid this digestive issue. Here, we’ll discuss constipation and the factors that most frequently cause it.
What is Constipation?
When the digestive system is functioning normally, the colon takes moisture from food as it moves through your digestive system to form stool. Then, the colon pushes the stool through the rectum to get rid of it.
However, if the stool remains in the colon for too long, it can harden. It’s difficult to pass hardened stool, which leads to constipation.
Factors That Contribute To Constipation?
There are a variety of factors that can lead to constipation, including:
- Dietary factors and changes
If your diet is too low in fiber, it can lead to constipation. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and legumes are all types of high-fiber foods. Additionally, certain foods can contribute to constipation.
such as eating dairy products, fatty meats, and food with added sugars.
- Low water intake
Your digestive system needs plenty of water to keep your stool soft. If you don’t drink enough water throughout the day, constipation may result.
- Stress
Stress hormones impact various bodily processes and may affect your digestive function. Also, when people are stressed out, they tend to drink less water, eat less healthily, and exercise less.
- A lack of physical activity
Leading a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to constipation. This is because physical activity is crucial to maintaining muscle tone, which supports normal bowel movements.
- Pregnancy
Hormonal changes, namely higher levels of progesterone, often lead to constipation during pregnancy.
- Ignoring the urge to pass a bowel movement
People who repeatedly ignore the urge to pass a bowel movement may experience constipation, as doing so forces stool to remain in the colon.
If you’re suffering from symptoms of constipation, colon hydrotherapy can help rid your body of accumulated waste for greater digestive comfort. For more information, schedule an appointment at Body Flow Wellness today.