Learn what to eat, what foods to avoid and get our best tips to help you poop again.
Constipation got you down?
You’re not alone-by any means.
“A lot of people don’t move their bowels every day,” Katz explains.
“That’s the new norm.”
To be fair, missing a daily poop doesn’t always mean you’re constipated.
“It’s not normal.”
Besides moving food along in your digestive tract, fiber helps cut your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
But many Americans get only get 12 grams, Katz says.
Add to that a lack of exercise and hydration, and you’ve got a real poop problem.
Constipation has other causes as well.
Certain medications, like antacids, some antidepressants and strong painkillers (opioids), can plug you up.
In some cases, frequent constipation can be a sign of an underlying condition.
Check out these6 high-fiber food swapsyou can make now.
Introducing too much fiber too fast can trigger diarrhea and give you tummy troubles.
Again, it’s about eating “pure foods with pure ingredients,” Katz says.
Exercise.It only makes sense: To keep your bowels moving, you gotta move your body more.
“Get a standing desk and walk more,” advises Katz.
A word about laxatives:Most people won’t need them if they’re eating right, says Katz.
Plus, check out ourhigh-fiber meal plans.
