What Foods Cause Constipation?

Have you ever wondered why you feel so “backed up” lately? Could it be the food you’ve been eating? What foods cause constipation? Could it be something you can easily change?

Good news: the solution might be easier than you think. By simply knowing which types of foods to avoid, you could stop constipation in its tracks.

So let’s explore the foods that can cause constipation and learn how to keep your digestive system working!

Dairy Products

Dairy products can cause constipation due to their low fiber and high-fat content. Cheese and ice cream are especially high in fat. They are also high in calcium, which can inhibit iron absorption.

This can also cause constipation by depriving your body of essential minerals. Cow’s milk is also known to be mucus-forming, so it can slow down the passage of stools in the intestines. Some people are sensitive to dairy products, and any milk product can worsen their constipation.

If you suffer from constipation and consume a lot of dairy, cutting back might be a good idea. Increasing your intake of water and whole grains can help move things along.

White Bread and Pasta

White bread and pasta are the most common causes of constipation. These foods are all made from refined white flour, which is low in fiber and hard to digest. The lack of fiber in these foods makes them difficult to pass through the intestines and can lead to constipation.

They are not whole grain products, which means they lack the fiber found in unrefined grains such as bran and whole wheat. White flour is also low in magnesium and other minerals that help the body absorb water and form stools. While white bread and pasta are convenient and delicious, they are not the best choices to avoid constipation.

Tender Meat

Tender meat is often associated with constipation in foods that cause it. This is because they are often high in fat, low in fiber, and are slow to digest.

Also, when meat like beef is cooked too long, the threads that hold it together break down. This makes it even more challenging to digest and resulting in constipation. Typically, red meats are the worst offenders, with fatty cuts like prime rib found to be the most constipating.

The food’s lactic acid bacteria can slow digestion and cause a hard stool, leading to constipation. Colonic hydrotherapy is a treatment that can help with these digestive issues. In this therapy, the rectum is filled with warm, filtered water, and the patient is asked to relax for some time.

Alcohol

Alcohol is not a cause of constipation in itself, but it can make existing constipation worse. Alcohol inhibits digestion, which can lead to other symptoms such as constipation. Consuming alcoholic beverages high in sugar can increase the risk of constipation.

Alcohol has a diuretic effect on the body, which reduces the water content of the stool. This can lead to sluggish digestion and difficult bowel movements. Eating too much processed or junk food high in trans fat and sugar can lead to constipation as well.

Thus, it is important to avoid eating foods high in sugar, trans fat, and alcohol to reduce the chances of constipation.

Understanding What Foods Cause Constipation

Understanding what foods cause constipation can help you make diet choices that increase your digestive health. Eating the correct foods in restraint can help prevent constipation. If you experience constipation, try adjusting your diet or consulting your doctor.

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