Common Nutritional Issues: Constipation

Constipation can be caused by many medications (pain, chemotherapy, etc), or lack of exercise after surgery or during treatment.  Diet changes can help avoid or manage constipation, although medications might be helpful as well.  If your doctor or nurse prescribes a stool softener or laxative, take them as directed.

Here are some nutrition recommendations for constipation:

• Drink at least 8 cups of fluids every day.
• Try warm, non-caffeinated, drinks such as lemon water or prune juice.  Sometimes a simple cup of hot water can help get bowels moving.
• Get calories in your diet from liquids by including soups, popsicles and juices.
• Gradually increase your fiber intake by adding (as tolerated): whole-grain breads & cereals, fruits and vegetables with skins and peels, beans, peas, dried fruit, unprocessed wheat bran or ground flaxseed.*  Note: Soaking beans first and discarding the water may help reduce flatulence.
• If gas is a problem, avoid carbonated drinks, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage, radishes, turnips, beans, peas and highly seasoned foods with onion and/or garlic.  Also avoid drinking with a straw or chewing gum.
• Exercise may help: try to be more active, even if it’s a short walk each day.  Make sure to check with your doctor first before starting any exercise regime.

* If you have recently had gastric surgery, do not attempt to add any of these foods unless you feel you are ready and are tolerating all the foods from the “Nutrition after Gastrectomy” diet information.