A member asked:

I have been constipated for the past 3 weeks and have tried adding more fiber and water to my diet but am still constipated. ?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Julie Abbott answered

Specializes in Preventive Medicine

Considerations: include how much fiber and water you added. The average American consumes about 15 grams of fiber daily; one probably needs 25-30 grams for optimal bowel function: fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains.And upwards of 8+ glasses of water a day. Be sure to add some daily exercise. Then consider fiber supplements/psyllium or OTC laxatives such as Miralax/Milk of Magnesia. Next..Rx from Doc

Answered 5/9/2016

1.3k views

Thank
Dr. David Lipkin answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

See below: Constipation can be caused by not eating enough fiber or drinking enough liquids. Other reasons include side effects of medication, hypothyroidism, irritable bowl disease and pregnancy. For advice on treating constipation see http://bit.ly/1uzOegm and MY Checklist: "Treating Constipation.".

Answered 5/9/2016

1.3k views

Thank

Related Questions