This is due to a number of factors, including reduced intestinal muscle contractions and reliance on regular medications. Advancing age – constipation is more common in the elderly.Pregnancy – the action of hormones, reduced activity and the pressure of the growing uterus against the intestines mean that constipation is common during pregnancy.Some medications – such as narcotics (particularly codeine), antidepressants, iron supplements, calcium-channel blockers (antihypertensives, particularly verapamil) and non-magnesium antacids are known to slow bowel movements.Regularly ignoring this urge may make the body less sensitive to normal signals to go to the toilet. A tendency to ‘put off’ going to the toilet – ignoring the urge to go means that more water will be extracted from the stools, making them difficult to pass.Lack of regular exercise – living a sedentary lifestyle or being restricted in movement due to a disability are common causes of constipation.Constipation can occur from a high-fibre diet if insufficient water is consumed. Insufficient water – the fibre in faeces will only plump up with water.Good sources of insoluble fibre are in wheat bran, wholegrain breads and cereals. Insoluble fibre adds bulk to the faeces, helping it to move more quickly through the bowel. Good sources of soluble fibre include legumes, fruits and vegetables. Soluble fibre helps to soften the faeces. There are two broad types of fibre soluble and insoluble.
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