Constipation

Question 1

Define constipation

Answer 1

Constipation is when peristaltic action is slowed to the point where stool is passed fewer than three times a week.

Question 2

Why does stool passing through the colon too slowly create a risk for constipation

Answer 2

The slower food moves through the digestive tract, the more water the colon can absorb and the harder the stool becomes.

Question 3

Why does a lack of fibre create constipation

Answer 3

A lack of fibre causes the stool to become small and hard, requiring extra pressure to pass

Question 4

What other two conditions can be caused by constipation

Answer 4

1. Hemorrhoids
2. Diverticulitis

Question 5

List the causes of constipation

Answer 5

1. Slow peristaltic action
2. Lack of fibre in the diet
3. Low levels of physical activity

Question 6

Explain the term Diverticulitis

Answer 6

The intestinal wall becomes damaged from the additional pressure. Small pouch structures called Diverticula form. These pouches become filled with food waste. Bacteria feeds on this waste producing acids and gasses which cause the Diverticula to become inflamed.

Question 7

Explain what hemorrhoids are

Answer 7

Hemorrhoids are the swollen veins of the rectum and anus. They develop as a result of straining during the passing of stool

Question 8

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids

Answer 8

1. Pain
2. Itching
3. Bleeding

Question 9

How to prevent constipation

Answer 9

1. Eat whole meal, whole wheat or whole grain foods
2. Eat fruit, vegetables, pulses, peas, beans and lentils
3. Eat whole grain or fibre enriched cereals
4. Drink lots of fluid
5. Manage stress
6. Stay active

Question 10

Symptoms of constipation

Answer 10

1. Passing fewer than 3 stools a week
2. Having lumpy or hard stool
3. Straining to pass stool
4. Feeling as if your rectum is blocked
5. Feeling as if you can’t completely empty all the stool

Question 11

Nutritional ways to treat constipation

Answer 11

1. Eat three meals a day
2. Increase the amount of high-fibre foods in your diet
3. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day
4. Limit refined and processed food
5. Eat more raw fruits and vegetables, peels if able to

Question 12

Lifestyle changes to treat constipation

Answer 12

1. Exercise regularly (weight bearing) 3 or more times a week
2. Sleep enough and at a regular time each night
3. Go for a walk when you feel stressed
4. Limit stress in your life

Question 13

What is insoluble fibre

Answer 13

Insoluble fibre does not dissolve in water. It helps speed up peristaltic action by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass

Question 14

What are sources of insoluble fibre

Answer 14

1. Whole grain foods
2. Vegetables
3. Wheat bran
4. Legumes

Question 15

What is soluble fibre

Answer 15

Soluble fibre dissolves in water. It forms a gel. It aids peristaltic action by adding bulk to stool. It helps control blood glucose and cholesterol levels. It reduces your risk of diabetes

Question 16

What are sources of soluble fibre

Answer 16

1. Apples
2. Bananas
3. Barley
4. Oats
5. Beans