10 Foods To Avoid When Constipated
Constipation is an uncomfortable condition that can leave you feeling bloated, sluggish, and even in pain. Hard, lumpy stools that are hard to pass can disrupt your life and cause unnecessary discomfort. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Almost everyone experiences constipation at some point. If you are struggling with constipation, some foods may be making your symptoms worse. Here are 10 foods to avoid when constipated.
Foods to Avoid When Constipated
1. Processed Foods
Processed foods, such as those found in the grocery store’s snack aisle, are usually low in fiber and high in fat. These foods slow digestion, allowing the food to sit in the colon longer. As stool sits in the colon, water is continuously absorbed back into the body, making it dry and harder to pass.
2. Dairy Products
Full-fat dairy products like cheese, milk, and ice cream are high in fat, which can be difficult to digest. Lactose can also be difficult for some people to digest and may cause constipation.
3. Fried or Greasy Foods
Fried or greasy foods, especially fast foods, are typically high in saturated fats. Foods high in fat slow digestion and make it harder for the body to break down the food, contributing to constipation.
4. Red Meats
Eating lots of fiber is essential for bulking up stool and making it easier to pass through the digestive tract. Red meat does not contain fiber, so eating it when constipated can make your stool more difficult to pass.
5. Bananas
Bananas, specifically unripened bananas, contain a high level of resistant starch. Resistant starch is a carbohydrate that can slow down digestion as it is difficult for the body to digest, leading to constipation.
6. White Bread and Refined Grains
White bread is made with refined flour, which means most of the fiber is removed during processing. Because white bread does not contain much fiber, it can contribute to constipation and make stool more difficult to pass.
7. Sugary Foods
Cakes, chocolate, and cookies are often high in fat and low in fiber. This can slow digestion, cause stool to sit longer in the colon, and worsen constipation.
8. Eggs
Some evidence suggests that eating too many eggs can worsen constipation. Although eggs are high in protein, they are often low in fiber, which slows digestion and worsens constipation.
9. Alcohol
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes your kidneys to produce more urine than they should. This leads to dehydration, which is a significant cause of constipation. Drinking alcohol when you are already constipated can make it worse.
10. Caffeinated Beverages
Just like alcohol, caffeine is a diuretic in large quantities. Drinking too many caffeinated beverages like sodas, coffee, or tea can cause dehydration and worsening constipation.
What Should You Eat When Constipated?
If you’re struggling with constipation, it’s essential to ensure you eat plenty of fiber-rich foods. Fiber supports a healthy gut microbiome and makes bowel movements more comfortable. Foods high in fiber include:
- Whole grains like oatmeal or bran
- Fresh fruits like apples, prunes, and berries
- Green vegetables like broccoli and asparagus
- Seeds and nuts like almonds and walnuts
When To See A Doctor
We all experience constipation from time to time. However, if your constipation is persistent and causing discomfort, it may be time to speak with a doctor. This is especially true if you have been paying attention to which foods to avoid when constipated, and it’s still a problem.
Don’t continue to struggle with constipation – schedule an appointment today!
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