Lifestyle Modifications for Managing Constipation

Dietary Modifications

The American Gastroenterological Association recommends increasing consumption of dietary fiber to 20-25g daily, which can significantly increase stool frequency in patients with chronic constipation, with a focus on soluble fiber sources such as ispaghula husk (psyllium) 1, 3
Consuming oats (such as oat-based breakfast cereal or porridge) and linseeds (up to 1 tablespoon per day) may help with constipation symptoms, as suggested by the Gastroenterology society 3, 4

The Gastroenterology society recommends drinking at least 8 cups (1.5-2.0 liters) of fluid per day, especially water or other non-caffeinated drinks like herbal teas, and restricting tea and coffee to 3 cups per day 3, 4
Reducing intake of alcohol and carbonated drinks is also recommended by the Gastroenterology society 3, 4

Increasing physical activity and mobility within patient limits, even bed to chair movement, can help manage constipation, as suggested by the Annals of Oncology 5
Creating a regular schedule for bowel movements and ensuring privacy and comfort during defecation can also help, according to the Annals of Oncology 5

The Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends avoiding excessive use of stimulant laxatives, which can lead to dependency 7
Failing to rule out other causes of constipation, such as medications, hypercalcemia, hypokalemia, hypothyroidism, and diabetes mellitus, is also a common pitfall, as noted by the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and Praxis Medical Insights 6, 7

For patients with irritable bowel syndrome and constipation (IBS-C), the Gastroenterology society suggests limiting high-fiber foods, such as whole-meal flour, high-fiber breads, bran cereals, and brown rice 3, 4
Wheat bran may cause excessive wind, distension, and pain in some individuals, and ispaghula husk is a better alternative in these cases, as recommended by the Gut society 1