12 Foods That Can Cause Constipation And How To Prevent It
Bananas, in general, are healthy. But unripe bananas may cause constipation (2). This is the reason they are used as a home remedy for an upset stomach. About 70-80% of the net weight of a green banana is resistant starch, a complex carbohydrate that has dietary fiber-like property. And though fiber is known to help relieve constipation, this particular type of dietary fiber is tough for the body to digest. So, avoid consuming green bananas if you are constipated.
2. Chocolate
Sorry to break this news to you, but yes, chocolate causes constipation. Especially milk chocolate. The humongous amount of fat in chocolate slows down digestion and peristalsisi XA series of symmetrical contractions and relaxation of muscles that help food move through the digestive tract. or movement of food through the digestive tract, thereby leading to constipation. In fact, the cocoa beans with husks are said to reduce constipation, but since most milk chocolates are devoid of it, having too many chocolates or chocolate products can lead to constipation (3).
3. Caffeine
Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly brewed coffee/tea? Aromatic and soothing! But drooling time’s up, the reality is it causes constipation. Drinks that contain caffeine, including energy drinks, black coffee, coffee with cream, decaf coffee, tea, tea with cream, hot chocolate, soda, etc., are a strict no for you. Caffeine tends to draw water from the colon when consumed in excess. However, when consumed in limited amounts, caffeine can stimulate bowel movement (4). So, be careful about the amount of caffeinated drinks you consume per day.
4. Processed And Frozen Foods
Frozen and processed foods may be convenient, but they are dangerous for you in every way. Foods like salami, sausage, frozen meals, and ready-to-eat foods are loaded with preservatives, are high in sodium or sugar content, and have added flavor and color. To digest all of these complex and artificial additives, the digestive system has to work extra hard. This, in turn, weakens the digestive system, leading to various gut problems, including constipation (5). Stop consuming these foods right now.
5. Gluten
open next page to continue reading….
