Constipation…beyond fiber, fluids and movement

In this episode we discuss the embarrassing conversation of CONSTIPATION!!  Exploring solutions beyond fiber, fluids and movement. 

Constipation may be a completely new experience for some.  Never having issues with constipation prior to gastric sleeve & bypass.  Where others found stability or improvement.

Let's face it, constipation isn't just a bariatric problem.  As a matter of fact, more than 63 million people in North America struggle! WOW!!

However, you may have found the standard recommendations don't always work

• Increase fluids
• Eat more fiber
• Exercise more

Instead, you may be using prescription Amatiza or Linzess, stool softeners, laxatives, enemas, suppositories, mineral oil or smooth move tea regularly!

Anything to move the cement in your gut!!

Although I am for ALL of these strategies, taking a different approach to focus on the root cause of motility may serve you better.

Understanding the Why

First off, let's talk about why .   Understanding what's causing your chronic constipation helps you find better solutions.  It's like using the right tool in the toolbox for the job.

We are going to dive into 6 different categories of what causes constipation.

6 categories that contribute to constipation

With this purpose in mind, we've broken down the different causes of motility issues into six different categories.

1. Structural
2. Surgical
3. Imbalance
4. Medications/Supplements
5. Malabsorption
6. Deficiencies

First, Structural

This is something that is inhibiting your body's ability for the movement to flow naturally.  This could be your alignment. Your pelvic alignment is off. This area also includes your pelvic floor.  Pelvic floor dysfunction is possible in males and females.

Second, Surgical

Surprisingly, vagus nerve damage can occur during surgery.  As a result, motility becomes an issue.  Additionally, Scar tissue.  Anyone who's had surgery has scar tissue.  To list endometriosis, gallbladder, appendix, gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, hysterectomy.  All create scar tissue and adhesions which impact motility.

Third, Imbalance

This covers imbalance in all areas of life.  This includes

• Diet
• Hydration
• Gut Bacteria
• Stress
• Thyroid

Because fiber is the best solution sometimes, including soluble and insoluble fiber is important.  On the other hand, some feel worse increasing fiber.  This may be the result of food sensitivities.  In addition, certain individuals react to fermentable fibers naturally in food.

Although fibers are great for gut bacteria, they may cause constipation in those intolerant to FODMAPs.  Lastly, you may want to consider fats.  Increasing healthy fats in your diet may provide the right balance for normal poops.

At no surprise, gut bacteria play a significant role in regular bowel movements.  Anyone experiencing dysbiosis, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth(SIBO) or low levels of good gut bacteria can experience constipation.

Fourth, Medications or Supplements

Of course, many of you are full aware of the constipating effects of iron and calcium.  In the same way, certain medications can cause motility issues as well.  These include narcotic pain meds, antacids and some antidepressants.  Talk with your prescribing provider.  Switching a medication to one that isn't constipating may do the trick.

Fifth, Malabsorption

Bile acid malabsorption is something we can't dismiss as a potential cause.  Compelling evidence is showing bile acids shift after gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries.

Sixth, Deficiencies

Finally, deficiencies are our last to consider as a contributor of constipation.   Deficiencies in nutrients such as

• magnesium
• vitamin D
• thiamin, vitamin B1
• vitamin B12

In conclusion, constipation is complex.  It's unlikely that just one area will solve the issue.  Typically considering a root cause approach can help move you beyond fiber, fluids and movement.

Are you struggling with constipation?

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Your future health awaits