Constipation happens when stool moves too slowly through the large intestine (colon). The liquid part of the stool is reabsorbed into the body, thereby hardening and drying the stool. This makes it difficult for stool to pass and causes constipation.
Constipation is a chronic problem in many patients all over the world. Constipation is a valuable health care problem in some patient groups in the risk cluster, such as the elderly, but in most cases, chronic constipation is not a life-threatening or debilitating complaint that can be managed in primary care.
So what are the causes of constipation?
CAUSES OF CONSTENCY
Malnutrition, insufficient sleep, limited training, rush, emotional tension and age can cause constipation. Certain diseases can also cause constipation and are often associated with sudden changes in bowel habits, pain, weight loss, fatigue or bloody stools.
In addition, some medications can cause constipation.
2.2. NUTRITION IN CONSEQUENTIAL NUTRITION
FIBER CONSUMPTION: Increased dietary fiber consumption improves constipation and significantly reduces the need for laxatives in children, young adults, the elderly and postoperative patients.
While high-fiber foods are often the first choice, fiber supplements may play a role in some individuals (eg, edentulous patients or those with dysphagia). Evidence shows that fiber supplements terminate the use of laxatives in approximately 60% of patients suffering from constipation.
Whole wheat bread and pasta, whole grains such as oatmeal,
legumes such as lentils, black beans, kidney beans, soybeans and chickpeas, shell apples, oranges and pears, carrots, broccoli, green Vegetables such as peas and black cabbage
Oil seeds such as almonds, peanuts and walnuts are strong in fiber and can be consumed in case of constipation.
LIQUID CONSUMPTION: The combination of 25 g fiber and 1.5-2.0 L fluid daily has been shown to be more effective in relieving constipation in patients with functional chronic constipation than fiber intake alone. For this reason, plenty of fluid consumption is as valuable as fiber consumption during the constipation period.
If we look at the nutritional recommendations that can be followed apart from these:
Three meals a day should be eaten and meals should not be skipped.
The amount of high fiber foods in the diet should be increased gradually.
More whole grain bread, cereal and rice should be consumed.
More raw fruits and vegetables should be consumed, and if possible, their peels should also be eaten.
Food labels should be read and the “dietary fiber” content of the food should be checked. Smooth sources contain 2 grams or more of fiber.
Six to eight glasses of water should be consumed each day.
Consumption of refined and processed foods should be stopped.
Consumption of ready-made and processed products such as chips, fast food, some frozen meals and snack foods should also be avoided.
