Changing what you eat may be an easy solution for treating constipation. Oatmeal is high in fiber and contains a good balance between soluble and insoluble fiber, which may help restore normal bowel functions. If constipation is a common occurrence in your life, you need to talk to your doctor about your dietary habits and how to increase your daily fiber intake to prevent further episodes of constipation.
What is Constipation?
Everyone has different bowel patterns and habits. Your body may not have to have a bowel movement every day, but if you have less than three bowel movements in one week, you're considered constipated, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Constipation is not a condition but rather a symptom of a condition. Certain digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, may cause chronic constipation.
Oatmeal and Fiber
One of the most effective ways to treat constipation is to eat a high-fiber diet, according to the Mayo Clinic. Increasing your daily fiber intake to between 20 and 35 g of fiber will cause your stool to become softer and add bulk, causing you to pass stools with ease and more often. Oatmeal contains 2 g of insoluble fiber and 2 g of soluble fiber per ½ cup of old-fashion oatmeal, according to QuakerOats.com. Eating a single serving of fiber daily and avoiding foods that lack fiber, such as meats and cheeses, should help restore normal bowel movements. Talk with your doctor before using oatmeal to treat your symptoms.
Types of Fiber in Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a good food to help alleviate constipation because it contains a good balance between soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber absorbs water in the digestive system, causing a gel-like substance to form, which helps add bulk while softening your stools. Soluble fiber may also help reduce cholesterol levels in your blood, which may help lower your risk of heart disease, according to MedlinePlus. Insoluble fiber is fiber that does not absorb water while in the digestive system and helps add roughage to your stools, which helps maintain regularity.
Considerations
Constipation is typically not a concerning symptom because you can treat it with increased fiber, alleviating symptoms within a few days. If you suddenly increase the amount of fiber you ingest daily, you may experience gas, bloating and abdominal pain until your digestive system becomes accustom to the extra fiber. If constipation symptoms persist even after increasing fiber, you need to talk with your doctor. This may be a sign of blockage in your large intestine.
