There are healthy habits you can incorporate into your daily routine to help prevent constipation, including1-2:
Drink plenty of fluids. If you are on a fluid restricted diet, please consult your doctor about your recommended fluid intake.
Eat regular meals. Eat foods high in fiber, such as whole grain and bran cereals, beans, potatoes, broccoli, corn, and fresh fruits. Avoid large amounts of milk, cheese, meat, fatty foods, and sugar if you are prone to constipation. Get healthy living recipes to help prevent constipation
Just a 20-30 minute walk or any other regular exercise can help prevent constipation.*
- Take regular bathroom breaks
Try to use the bathroom at the same time each day. Do not ignore the need to have a bowel movement (BM). Do not force a BM.
*Talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
- Constipation. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). National Institutes of Health. http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/digestive-diseases/constipation/Documents/Constipation_508.pdf. Accessed May 2016.
- Understanding Constipation. American Gastroenterological Association. http://www.gastro.org/info_for_patients/2013/6/6/understanding-constipation. Accessed May 2016.