Prevention
Avoiding constipation altogether is easier than treating it, but involves the same lifestyle measures:
- Eat lots of fiber.
- Drink plenty of fluids each day (at least 8 glasses of water per day).
- Exercise regularly.
- Go to the bathroom when you have the urge. Don't wait.
References
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Constipation page. Available at: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation/index.htm. Accessed March 23, 2005.
Bleser S, Brunton S, Carmichael B, Older K, Rasch R, Steele J. Management of chronic constipation: Recommendations from a consensus panel. J Fam Pract. 2005 Aug;54(8):691-8.
Rao SS. Constipation: evaluation and treatment. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2003; 32(2): 659-683.
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