What can I do to improve my constipation at home?

Follow a balanced diet to promote a healthy weight and overall feeling of health and wellbeing

Avoid processed foods

Minimize alcohol 

Limit caffeine 

Stay hydrated: WATER, WATER, WATER!

Avoid food triggers, which can vary from person to person, but may include lactose, dairy, fructose, and/or gluten products (wheat, barley and rye). 

Some people are more sensitive to certain carbohydrates found in foods such as fructose, fructans, lactose and others, known as FODMAPs (or Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides And Polyols). Following a low-FODMAP diet; then, reintroducing foods one at a time may help. If symptoms recur, you’ll have a better idea which foods to avoid. Nutrition consultation may be helpful in implementing this diet. 

Increase the fiber in your diet (oats, psyllium, plums, prunes and flaxseed); although be weary, some patients will notice increased gas and bloating with too much fiber. 

Reduce stress

Exercise regularly: Exercise helps by improving your overall sense of self and wellbeing, and helps to keep the digestive tract moving properly, potentially improving constipation. Always talk with your doctor first before starting any exercise routine.

Don’t smoke

Discuss all supplements with our office; don’t self-medicate

Probiotics may be helpful for some patients; although, evidence-based research to support their use is mixed.