Constipation & Diet: Foods That Can Contribute & Relieve

Foods that might cause constipation are low in fiber and usually high in fat. Foods that keep bowels regular include fiber that the body cannot digest and is found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Eating a large amount of animal products, along with refined and processed foods, might cause constipation when the person is also not eating enough fiber.

Dairy

• Dairy products, especially those higher in fat, are a main instigator of constipation. This includes ice cream, whole milk and cheese.

Processed Food

• These foods include prepackaged foods like boxed potatoes and casserole mixes, potato chips, dessert snacks and fast food sandwiches.

Refined Food

• Foods refined to remove the fiber and those with no fiber to begin with might cause constipation. These include sugars, white flour and white rice.

Fatty Meat

• Fatty meat causes problems, so people with irregularity issues should choose lean meat instead.

Beverages

• Alcohol, colas, coffee and fruit juice with the pulp removed can cause constipation.