Getting enough fiber in your diet may reduce the risk of constipation. Many Americans don’t get nearly enough fiber, which you can find in whole grains, nuts and seeds, and fruits and veggies.
Certain foods may worsen constipation, such as dairy, fried foods, fast foods, meat, and processed foods. On the other hand, eating too much fiber can also trigger constipation.
References
Bae, S.H. (2014). Diets for constipation. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition.
Hoy, M.K., et al. (2014). Fiber intake of the U.S. population [report]. U.S. Department of Agriculture.
MedlinePlus. (2022). Constipation - self care.
MedlinePlus. (2023). Dietary fiber.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2018). Eating, diet, & nutrition for constipation.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Dietary fiber.
Why trust our experts?
