Constipation is a common issue that affects people of all ages. It occurs when bowel movements become less frequent or difficult to pass, causing discomfort and impacting overall digestive health. While some causes are rather common such as junk food-filled diet, other factors like lifestyle can be very specific and uncommon. Understanding the various causes of constipation, both common and uncommon, can help you manage and prevent this uncomfortable condition. Let’s dive into the details.

Constipation in Different Age Groups

• Constipation Causes in Adults

For adults, constipation is often linked to dietary and lifestyle factors, but it can also be a result of aging, where the digestive system naturally slows down. At the same time, it affects men and women differently adding another layer to the factors that influence your bowel movement. It is important for adults to focus on fibre intake, hydration, and physical activity to prevent constipation.

• Constipation Causes in Children

Children can also suffer from constipation, often due to poor dietary habits or fear of using the toilet. Toilet training young kids at the later stages of their toddler stage may also contribute to constipation early on, as kids may not learn the proper posture or signs of timely elimination of stool. Ensuring that children have a balanced diet rich in fibre and plenty of fluids can help maintain their digestive health.

Causes of Constipation

• Dietary Factors

One of the most common causes of constipation is poor diet. A diet low in fibre intake can lead to hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. Fibre is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and promoting gut health. It absorbs water and prevents stool hardening in the large intestine. It is important to include both water soluble and insoluble fibre in your diet.

• Lack of Hydration

Dehydration is another major factor. Water helps soften stools, making them easier to pass. Without adequate hydration, your body may absorb too much water from the stool, leading to constipation. To maintain digestive health, it is crucial to drink enough fluids throughout the day.

• Physical Activity

A sedentary lifestyle is a bane in today’s life. Regular physical activity stimulates gut motility, helping to move food through the digestive tract. A lack of exercise can slow down this process, resulting in constipation. Therefore, incorporating physical activity into your daily routine is vital for maintaining regular bowel movements.

• Lifestyle Factors

Do you know 70% of your immune system resides in your gut? Nothing harms your gut health quicker than stress. Stress, irregular eating patterns, and ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can all disrupt normal bowel function. These habits may lead to a cycle of constipation that becomes difficult to break.

• Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can impact gut motility and lead to constipation. Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, and diabetes can all affect the digestive system. In some cases, constipation may be one of the early signs of these underlying health issues.

• Gut Motility Disorders

Gut motility disorders, such as gastroparesis or colonic inertia, can cause constipation by slowing down the movement of food through the digestive tract. These conditions often require specialized treatment and management to alleviate constipation symptoms.

• Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, can lead to constipation. Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause are times when many women experience changes in their digestive health. These hormonal shifts can affect gut motility and lead to constipation.

Prevention and Treatment

1. Prevention

Preventing constipation involves maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and incorporating regular physical activity into your daily routine. Being mindful of your body’s signals and not ignoring the urge to go can also prevent constipation.

2. Treatment

When constipation occurs, treatment options include dietary changes, increasing fiber intake, and using natural remedies for constipation. Resorting to Ayurvedic treatment for constipation may be one of the best options available as the cause minimal to no side effects. In more severe cases, laxatives or other medical interventions may be necessary, but these should be used under a doctor’s guidance.