7 surprising reasons you are constipated
So many people report being chronically constipated. Anything less than one bowel movement a day isn’t healthy. We should always be able to visit the bathroom and produce brown, formed stool. Unfortunately, many of us are constipated. Most of the time, constipation is caused by poor lifestyle habits like a low fibre diet, dehydration (it is recommended to drink at east five glasses of water daily) and a lack of exercise. But occasionally, constipation results from more surprising reasons. Here are 7 of them:
1. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a disease that can affect the metabolism. When the thyroid gland is less active, the intestinal tract muscles slow down, and the stool travel through the colon much slower. A stool that hangs out in the colon too long drains a lot of water, making it harder to pass. It also creates a breeding ground for bad bacteria, which affects our micro-biome.
2. Depression
Everything slows down when you are suffering from depression, even your digestion. It is common that a depressive person will follow a different lifestyle, such as being less active, consuming more processed foods and eating more (or less) than usual. An unhealthy diet that is low in fibre, in addition to a sedentary lifestyle, can rapidly provoke constipation.
3. Medications
Certain drugs can cause constipation, particularly painkillers. These medicines cause the slowing down of the body, including the colon. Other medications that can contribute to constipation include antacids that contain calcium or aluminum, some antidepressants, antispasmodic and anticonvulsant drugs, anti-Parkinson's drugs, tranquilizers, and calcium channel blockers for high blood pressure and heart disease.
4. Supplements
Constipation is a common side effect of taking iron supplements. This is because iron is the favourite micronutrient for the harmful bacteria living in the gut. Our intestinal flora is usually in check on a balanced diet. However, when we take iron in large quantity, it feeds our pathogenic bacteria and allows them to multiply. This can lead to dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut flora that causes digestive troubles.
5. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, progesterone hormones have a relaxing effect on the muscles of the bowel. This slows down the peristaltic movement and can cause constipation. The growing uterus also weighs on the bowel. It sits on it and squishes it, resulting in a thinner pipe and slower elimination.
6. Laxative overuse
Abusing laxatives can have the opposite effect and cause constipation. Dulcolax, Ex-Lax and senna stimulate the nerves of the colon. Over time, if the muscles are not being used, they can start to weaken and depend on laxatives. To relieve constipation, it is best to choose a natural, bulk-forming laxative like psyllium husk. It stimulates the intestines without changing the body’s actions.
7. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a disorder of the large intestine that causes uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, cramping and pain. Spasms can also delay the movement of the digestive tract, leading to constipation. A person suffering from IBS will also experience episodes of diarrhea, depending on what they ate.
How to relieve constipation
Being constipated is not normal. And laxatives are not a long term solution. Relieving constipation demands that you avoid everything that triggers constipation. If you are taking medications or iron supplements because you are anemic, there are lifestyle changes you can do to help.
The food you eat plays a big part in your colon health. Doing a detox diet and eliminate all foods that are lacking fibre will allow you to have regular bowel movements. All animal products contain ZERO fibre. They are also high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which is known to promote heart disease, weight gain and diabetes. Plants on the other hand, are loaded with fibre. They promote healthy digestion, weight loss and colon cleansing. Eat leafy greens, cruciferous and other veggies, fruits, beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains, and drink water throughout the day.
Get at least 45 minutes of physical activity daily. Certain abdominal workout routines are great to stimulate bowel movements.
Get tested for intestinal parasites. They are quite common and they can be responsible for an unhealthy digestion.
If you are up for it, try a a complete body cleanse program with a 7 day detox and colon cleanse. Fasting can reset your digestive system and eliminate old buildup, leaving you cleaner and lighter.











