Three Leading Causes of Constipation

1. Dietary Issues

Constipation is often caused by inadequate intake of water or fiber. When a person doesn't drink enough water, the body removes water from the intestines, making stool harder to pass. Plenty of fiber-filled foods allows the body to retain enough water for normal elimination. Fruits, whole grains and vegetables work naturally to prevent constipation. Foods to avoid when constipated:

• Caffeine
• Gluten
• Red Meat
• Dairy
• Alcohol

2. Reactions to Medication

Constipation is a side effect of many common medications, including:

• Antacids
• Antidepressants
• Narcotics
• Antihistamines
• Pills containing iron
• Some sedatives and antihypertensive medications

3. Overuse of Laxatives

When people use laxatives too frequently, the bowel can come to rely on them, resulting in a loss of muscle function. It's easy for a reliance on laxatives to result in increasing constipation, which in turn often results in the perceived need for more laxatives.