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02:13

The 4 Daily Habits of People Who Rarely Get Constipated

In this video, gastroenterologist Anthony Starpoli, MD, explains which diet and exercise habits can help prevent constipation in most healthy individuals.

Lauren Smith, MAAlexandra Schwarz, MD
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Alexandra Schwarz, MD
Updated on December 22, 2023

Constipation can be painful and frustrating if you’re experiencing it day after day (after day after day). You may worry something’s wrong in your body that’s causing this traffic jam downstairs.

Most of your bowel woes can be traced back to your lifestyle and not necessarily a more serious GI issue. For example, “to have a regular bowel movement is very dependent on how you eat,” says Anthony Starpoli, MD, a gastroenterologist in New York City. In this video, learn which habits experts recommend to keep your #2 on the move.

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Additional Medical Contributors
  • Anthony Starpoli, MDDr. Starpoli is a board-certified gastroenterologist who is affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital-Northwell Health, Mt. Sinai-Beth Israel Medical Center, and NYU Langone Medical Center.

    References

    Bae, S.H. (2014). Diets for constipation. Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition.

    Hoy, M.K., et al. Fiber intake of the U.S. population: what we eat in America, NHANES 2009-2010. FSRG Dietary Data Briefs, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

    View All References (5)

    Huang, R., et al. (2014). Physical activity and constipation in Hong Kong adolescents. PLoS One.

    Larson, H. (2021). Easy ways to boost fiber in your daily diet. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2018). Treatment for constipation.

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018). Physical activity guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition.

    Yang, J., et al. (2012). Effect of dietary fiber on constipation: a meta analysis. World Journal of Gastroenterology.

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