Skip to main content
Press Release

Understanding Constipation and Related Myths

Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana Dec 18, 2024

Understanding Constipation and Related Myths  

Ludhiana, December, 2024: Constipation is one of the most prevalent health issues affecting all age groups. It is a common health condition that affects people of all ages, often caused by lifestyle factors such as an unhealthy diet, dehydration, insufficient physical activity and other underlying health conditions. Proper diagnosis and lifestyle adjustments are essential for managing constipation effectively. The condition is marked by infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, hard - dry stools, and an inability to have regular daily bowel movements 

According to Medical News today, chronic constipation can lead to complications such as anal fissures. In more severe cases, it may result in fecal impaction, which can require hospitalization, surgery, and in extreme cases, become life-threatening. To raise awareness about the causes of constipation, Dr Mudit Kumar, Additional Director, (GI, Minimal Access and Bariatric Surgery), Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana, explains, “Unhealthy eating habits such as consuming excessive protein and fat while lacking adequate fiber—are often major triggers. In addition, dehydration from insufficient water intake and a sedentary lifestyle are also common causes. Sometimes, constipation occurs due to weak nerve and muscle function in the bowel. People who have undergone surgeries like gastric bypass, which affects the stomach, are also more likely to experience constipation.” 

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding constipation that can make it harder to understand and manage effectively. Here are some of the most common myths debunked: 

1) Tobacco, Smoking, and Caffeine Are Key to Relieving Constipation: Local beliefs have led people to use tobacco, smoking, or drinking tea and coffee as remedies to encourage bowel movements. However, experts warn that these habits do not address the root causes of constipation and may have harmful effects on overall health. 

2) Your Diet Is Always the Culprit: Another myth is that diet alone is the cause of constipation. There are other factors, such as medications for pain or depression, that are often the actual cause. Before eliminating foods you suspect might be causing constipation, it’s important to consult with your doctor to determine whether medications could be contributing to the issue. 

3)  Fiber Rich Diet Is All You Need to Ease Constipation: While low fiber intake can certainly cause constipation, simply increasing fiber when you’re already constipated doesn’t always provide relief. There are two types of fiber—soluble and insoluble—and soluble fiber is generally more effective. To alleviate constipation, it’s best to focus on increasing your intake of soluble fiber. 

4) Probiotics Are a Guaranteed Solution: Probiotics are known for their ability to support gut health by maintaining a healthy microbiome. They can help ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and may provide some relief from constipation. However, more extensive research is needed to fully confirm their effectiveness in treating constipation. 

5) Drinking More Water Will Resolve Constipation: While staying hydrated is crucial for digestive health, drinking water alone has not been proven to resolve constipation. Drinking excessive amounts of water will likely not trigger bowel movements. To effectively reduce the risk of constipation, it's important to combine proper hydration with a balanced diet rich in fiber. 

6) Yogurt Can Cure Constipation: Yogurt is a natural source of probiotics, which can help promote healthy gut bacteria. While it can support overall digestive health, yogurt alone is not a cure for constipation. Still, incorporating yogurt into your daily diet, alongside other fiber-rich and healthy foods, can help prevent constipation. Other natural probiotics, such as curd and buttermilk, are also excellent options that are easy to incorporate into your diet. 

barqut

Keep track of your appointments, get updates & more!

app-store google-play
Request callback