10 Foods That Cause Constipation (AVOID THESE)
1. Gluten
Gluten is a binding protein found in semolina, rye, wheat, and barley. It provides the food in its form and keeps it together. But a large number of people are gluten sensitive and may experience constipation. Not all gluten-sensitive people encounter constipation, but those with Celiac disease should totally avoid gluten products.
2. Red Meat
Consuming red meat can result in constipation as it is high in fat and iron and has protein fibers that are difficult to digest. So, it is most beneficial to avoid consuming red meat like beef, lamb, pork, ground beef, venison, veal, and goat.
3. Alcohol
Alcohol consumption has consumed most of us, primarily because we tend to go overboard with it. It can cause nausea, constipation, and headache because it is dehydrating. And not drinking adequate water when you have alcohol may inhibit the cells from working. And as a consequence, the cells draw more water from the wastes in the digestive tract. This, in turn, hinders bowel movement and causes constipation. Avoid alcohol totally if you often suffer from constipation. Or drink as much water as you can when you intake alcohol.
4. Too Much Dairy Products
Dairy products like yogurt, milk, cheese, and ice cream can cause constipation when taken in a large amount. The lactose in dairy products has been found liable for causing gas and bloating. Cheese often causes constipation in adults. A research conducted on Iranian children aged 1 to 13 noted that dairy products were the cause of their constipation. Nearly 80% of the children who withdrew cow’s milk and dairy products from their diet had more consistent bowel movements. However, this does not mean that dairy products do not have any health benefits and should be dropped completely. To avoid constipation, it is desirable to consume them in the balance as part of a high-fiber diet.
5. Green Bananas
Bananas, in general, are healthy. But unripe green bananas may cause constipation. This is the cause they are used as a home cure for an upset stomach. About 70-80% of the net weight of green banana is resistant starch, a complex carbohydrate that has dietary fiber-like properties. And though fiber is known to help relieve constipation, this particular type of dietary fiber is tough for the body to digest. So, avoid consuming green bananas if you remain constipated.
6. Caffeine
Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly brewed coffee/tea? Aromatic and soothing! But, the reality is it causes constipation. Drinks that contain caffeine, including energy drinks, coffee with cream, decaf coffee, black coffee, hot chocolate, soda, tea, tea with cream, etc., are a stern no for you. Caffeine tends to draw water from the colon when consumed in abundance. However, when consumed in limited amounts, caffeine can stimulate bowel movement. So, be cautious about the quantity of caffeine you consume per day.
7. Fried or Fast Foods
Fried and fast foods are food trends that need to go away. These are the main reasons for many health issues like obesity and heart diseases. Considering these foods are also high in sodium and artificial food additives, they manage to slow down the passing of food through the colon, leading to constipation. If you are someone who has at least one meal consisting of fried or fast foods, you will be at risk of not only constipation but also many other health issues. Stop eating these – the sooner, the better. Avoid them entirely if you suffer from constipation frequently.
8. Chocolates
Yes, chocolate causes constipation. Especially milk chocolate. The huge amount of fat in chocolate slows down digestion and peristalsis or passage of food through the digestive tract, thereby causing constipation. In fact, the cocoa beans with husks are assumed to decrease constipation, but since most milk chocolates are lacking, having too many chocolates or chocolate products can cause constipation.
9. Chips
The perfect balance of salt and sugar in the chips makes it very difficult to stop once you have begun. But did you know that besides making you gain weight, they can also induce constipation? Yes, chips are fried and loaded in sodium. Avoid eating too much of them or just expel them from your house.
10. Processed and Frozen Foods
Processed and frozen foods may be easy to prepare, but they are harmful to you in every way. Foods like sausage, frozen dinners salami, and ready-to-eat foods are packed with preservatives, are high in sodium or sugar content, and have added flavor and color. To digest all of these intricate and artificial additives, the digestive system has to work very hard. This, in turn, weakens the digestive system, leading to several gut problems, including constipation. End consuming these foods right now.
Bottomline
Avoiding the foods discussed above will help you get rid of constipation without having to gulp down a tasteless powder or tablet. Drink water every hour, avoid smoking, go on morning walks or runs, and have your meals on time. You will feel better.
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