Does Constipation Really Cause Weight Gain?

Can Constipation Lead to Weight Gain?

Constipation is an uncomfortable and frustrating condition that affects people of all ages. You may wonder if being constipated causes you to gain weight, or if the extra weight is leading to constipation instead. Understanding the link between constipation and weight gain can help you find relief.

What is Constipation?

Constipation refers to infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements. Typically, doctors diagnose constipation when you have fewer than three bowel movements per week. Common signs include:

• Hard, dry stool
• Straining during bowel movements
• Feeling like you can't completely eliminate
• Abdominal pain and bloating

What Causes Constipation?

Many factors can contribute to constipation, including:

• Not enough fiber in your diet
• Dehydration
• Lack of exercise
• Certain medications
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Pregnancy
• Some neurological or muscular disorders

Low Fiber Diet

Eating a diet high in fiber, especially from fruits, vegetables and whole grains, helps form soft, bulky stool. Fiber pulls in water which helps keep stool from becoming dry and difficult to pass.

Can Constipation Lead to Weight Gain?

There seems to be a complex relationship between constipation and weight gain involving various factors:

Bloating and Fluid Retention

Backed up stool in your colon draws in water, leading to bloating and fluid retention. The number on the scale may increase as a result. However this type of weight is temporary and will subside once bowel movements become regular.

Changes in Appetite

Some people notice changes in appetite and eating habits when constipated. Either they unintentionally eat less due to discomfort, or crave more unhealthy foods. Significant changes in diet can result in weight fluctuations.

Altered Gut Bacteria

There is some evidence that the bacteria makeup in the colon could play a role. Researchers found that in mice, certain bacteria altered due to constipation led to increased weight gain compared to non-constipated mice when fed a high fat diet.

Slower Metabolism

One study involving women with functional constipation found they had slightly slower resting metabolic rates compared to women without constipation issues. The difference wasn't major however.

Can Being Overweight Cause Constipation?

On the other hand, carrying excess weight, especially in the abdominal area, could make having regular bowel movements more difficult. Possible reasons why obesity might lead to constipation include:

• Physical activity helps motility
• Poor diet quality
• Hormone changes
• Nervous system changes

Losing weight through diet and exercise may help some people suffering from chronic constipation. However, constipation can happen at any weight.

Tips for Managing Constipation

Making certain lifestyle modifications often brings relief from constipation and its uncomfortable symptoms like bloat and sluggishness. And preventing or finding relief from constipation can have positive impacts on maintaining a healthy body weight as well.

Eat More Fiber

Aim for at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day from vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Raspberries, lentils, oatmeal and split peas are just some great high fiber choices.

Stay Hydrated

Proper water intake is crucial for keeping stool soft and bowel movements regular. Women should aim for at least 11 cups (2.7 liters) of total fluids and men need 15 1/2 cups (3.7 liters) daily.

Exercise Daily

Physical activity like brisk walking, strength training and yoga stimulates contractions in the intestines to help move stool through the colon more efficiently.

Consider Probiotic Foods

Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi contain probiotics. These healthy bacteria support digestive and immune health.

Making simple yet impactful adjustments like staying active, eating fiber-rich plant foods and staying hydrated can prevent or resolve constipation while also promoting a healthy body weight.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.