Why Am I Still Constipated Despite Drinking Lots of Water and Eating Fiber?

Have you been consistently drinking plenty of water and consuming a fiber-rich diet but still experiencing severe constipation? You're not alone, but it's important not to overlook the underlying reasons and seek medical advice if necessary. Sometimes, stress and certain environmental factors can play a significant role, especially if you are in a high-stress profession.

Stress and Constipation

Stress can indeed contribute to constipation. If you have ever worked in a high-pressure environment, such as a hostel dealing with individuals experiencing drug and alcohol issues, mental health crises, or other challenging situations, your body may have been under significant emotional and physical strain. Such stressful jobs can lead to chronic tension and knots in the body, even if you appear calm on the outside.

Water and Fiber Intake

It's crucial to consider the full scope of your hydration and fiber intake beyond just drinking a liter of water a day. Water intake includes all forms of fluid and liquid foods, such as tea, coffee, fruit juices, beer, wine, sauces, and gravies. Even the water content in the foods you eat, like meat and vegetables, should be counted.

Effective Remedies for Constipation

Try incorporating stool softeners at night, having a small amount of prune juice in the morning and evening, and using products like Metamucil once or twice a day. Better yet, re-examine your diet and make adjustments as needed. If these methods do not provide relief, it is advisable to see a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Hidden Causes of Constipation

There is a lesser-known but significant cause of constipation related to the quality of the water you drink. Many people who drink large amounts of water daily and consume fiber-rich foods still struggle with constipation. This is because the inorganic salts present in the water, such as calcium, copper, and aluminum salts, can cause severe constipation in some individuals. Excessive fluoride in water can be particularly problematic and lead to the most severe constipation.

Constipation associated with drinking too much fluoridated water can also be linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. Using appropriate water filters to remove these excessive minerals from your drinking and cooking water is the most effective remedy.

Don't let constipation become a major issue in your life. Address it promptly and seek professional advice if necessary. By recognizing and addressing potential hidden causes, you can improve your overall health and well-being.