Constipation is caused when stools in the large intestine lose water, become dry and hard, move slowly and become difficult to excrete, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Eating foods low in fiber, not drinking sufficient water throughout the day and taking calcium supplements and certain drugs are some of the main factors contributing to constipation. There are many foods to avoid that can cause constipation.
Dairy
The most common cause of constipation is a diet that is low in fiber and high in fat, according to eMedTV. Fiber in foods is not digested and helps facilitate bowel movements. Foods low in fiber can stay in the large intestine longer, becoming dry and hard and difficult to excrete. Dairy foods such as milk, cheese, ice cream and butter are low in fiber and can contribute to constipation, according to American Chronicle. These foods are also high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and can increase risk of cardiovascular disease. Research by W.T. Lee published in the Journal of Pediatrics and Child Health in 2008 found that constipated children have significantly lower intakes of dietary fiber than nonconstipated children; this was attributed to underconsumption of plant foods and higher intake of milk.
Meat
Red and processed meat has little dietary fiber and can increase risk of colon cancer, according to Oncology Times. Research conducted by Y. Park of the Department of Nutrition at Harvard University School of Public Health and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2005 showed that dietary fiber intake is inversely associated with risk of colorectal cancer. Well-cooked, tender meat, fish and eggs are low in fiber, according to Healthcastle Nutrition.
Processed Foods
Refined and processed foods are among the unhealthiest types of foods that can cause constipation, according to American Chronicle. Processed and prepackaged foods have little dietary fiber. These foods include instant mashed potatoes, pastries, cookies, cakes, crackers, frozen pizza, potato and corn chips, and prepared meals such as frozen dinners. Older adults who have difficulty chewing or swallowing often choose processed foods that are soft and low in fiber, according to eMedTV. Further, children and adults frequently eat refined and processed fast foods and snacks as part of their daily diet. Research by K. Murakami published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology in 2007 found that confections and bread are positively associated with constipation. Healthcastle Nutrition says enriched refined white bread, bagels, buns, English muffins, white rice and pasta are low in fiber.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: What I Need to Know About Constipation
- eMedTV: Foods That Cause Constipation
- American Chronicle: Foods That Cause Constipation--The Things to Be Avoided
- "Journal of Pediatrics and Child Health"; Increased Prevalence of Constipation in Children Attributable to under-Consumption of Plant Foods: A Community-Based Study; Lee, W.T.; Apr 2008
- Oncology Times: Mounting Evidence That Low Dietary Fiber Intake in Red Meat Lovers Raises Risk of Colon Cancer
