Your Health
Constipation and the Elderly
Chad Collins,B,Sc., R.D.
Constipation is a very common complaint.In the US alone, it accounts for 2.5 million doctors visits eachyear. The occurrence of constipation is highest among individuals65 years and older.
In addition to affecting quality of life,it may lead to complete blockage of the bowel, leakage and evenstretching and tearing of the bowel.
Reasons why constipation is common in theelderly include the use of multiple medications, other diseases,low physical activity, not drinking enough fluids, as well aschanges in dietary habits.
The initial treatment of constipation shouldbegin with a non-drug approach. First, try to increase the amountof fiber in your diet slowly. Fiber is found in certain foods,and one kind of fiber called insoluble fiber is not able to bedigested by our body, therefore helps to increase the bulk ofour stool. Also fiber absorbs water, making the stool softer.The larger softer stool helps stimulate the bowels to move. Fibershould be added slowly to the diet to help prevent unpleasantsymptoms such as gas, bloating and flatulence.
Also drinking lots of water is extremelyimportant. Without water the fiber eaten would become dry in thebowel, actually making problems of constipation worse. It is recommendedto drink 8-12 cups of non-caffeine fluids per day, trying to havehalf of this come from water.
Fiber can be found in foods such as fruitsand vegetables, legumes and whole grain products that are alsorich in other nutrients.
Also an exercise program such as walkingfor a half an hour after eating may also be helpful. For thoseunable to walk, stationary exercises may be of benefit.
Lastly, understanding how your body works.After eating and the stomach is full with food, this sends a signalto our bowels to move. To best take advantage of this, try togo to the washroom a half an hour after eating.
Chad Collins,
BSc, RD, CNSD
Registered Dietitian
Nutrix Ltd.
946-8749