Health
Constipationand the Elderly
Chad Collins,B,Sc., R.D.
Constipation is a very commoncomplaint. In the U.S. alone, it accounts for 2.5 million Doctorvisits each year. The occurrence of constipation is highest amongindividuals 65 years and older.
In addition to affectingquality of life, it may lead to complete blockage of the bowel,leakage and even stretching and tearing of the bowel.
Reasons why constipationis common in the elderly include the use of multiple medications,other diseases, low physical activity, not drinking enough fluids,as well as changes in dietary habits.
The initial treatment ofconstipation should begin with a non-drug appr- oach. First, tryto increase the amount of fiber in your diet slowly. Fiber isfound in certain foods, and one kind of fiber called insolublefiber is not able to be digested by our body, therefore helpsto increase the bulk of our stool. Also fiber absorbs water, makingthe stool softer. The larger softer stool helps stimulate thebowels to move. Fiber should be added slowly to the diet to helpprevent unpleasant symptoms such as gas, bloating and flatulence.
Also drinking lots of wateris extremely important, without water the fiber eaten would becomedry in the bowel, actually making problems of constipation worse.It is recommended to drink 8-12 cups of non-caffeine fluids perday, trying to have half of this come from water.
Fiber can be found in foodssuch as fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grain productsthat are also rich in other nutrients.
Also an exercise programsuch as walking for a half an hour after eating may also be helpful.For those unable to walk, stationary exercises may be of benefit.
Lastly, understanding howyour body works. After eating and the stomach is full with food,this sends a signal to our bowels to move. To best take advantageof this, try to go to the washroom a half an hour after eating.
Chad Collins
Nutrix Ltd.