Our last blog shared plenty of information on the danger of postponing medical attention for constipation. Chronic constipation can cause long-term harm, so read last week’s post before moving on. In this blog, readers will learn ways to prevent chronic constipation as well as treatment options.

Preventing chronic constipation:

Although you cannot always prevent physical blockages which may cause chronic constipation, patients may implement prevention for other causes. Diet is very important for keeping our bodies as healthy as possible. This is especially true during this pandemic.

You would not give your car the wrong fuel every day, so don’t do this to your body. No one would expect a car to run correctly on the wrong fuel, so don’t expect your body to be any different.

With many medical issues, the damage cannot be undone. To prevent chronic constipation, eat high-fiber foods. The following are high-fiber options that can be eaten daily:

  • fruits
  • whole grain cereals
  • bran
  • beans
  • vegetables

In general, at least one of these types of foods should eaten on a daily basis. Cut down on foods with low amounts of fiver such as processed foods, dairy, and meat products. Drink plenty of fluids.

More prevention for chronic constipation:

Aim for a routine with regular exercise, and avoid being stationary for longer than thirty minutes at a time. When exercising and perspiring simultaneously, rehydrate frequently. Drinking fluids is a very important, easy way to prevent constipation.

Managing stress can be hard for anyone during this challenging time. However, just like any other health condition, try to manage stress to prevent constipation. If you feel the urge to pass stool, do not ignore it or put it off.

Some people do not feel comfortable passing stool in friends’ or family members’ homes, but to prevent constipation, you must not ignore the urge to pass stool. No matter where you are, use the restroom.

Get a schedule:

Try to create a schedule for bowel movements. Now, this may seem harder than it really is. Most people pass stool after a meal, so try to figure what time is best for you to pass stool.

Some patients find it easier to pass stool right after running or exercising. Others find it best to pass all stool when they wake up for the day. This may correlate to when you chug water or eat at certain times of the day.

Figure what works for your body. Next time, we are sharing the treatment options for chronic constipation. Make an appointment today if you have been experiencing chronic constipation to avoid long-term damage.

No matter the holidays you are celebrating, join us as we hop into spring!

Staff Writer