1. Vitamin C
The authors of an earlier study from 2008 noticed that children with constipation had lower levels of vitamin C, folate, and magnesium. These children also ate lower amounts of dietary fiber, fruits, and plant foods. Not consuming enough fiber can cause constipation.
Fruits and vegetables, which are high in fiber, are often high in vitamin C as well. Some possible side effects of taking vitamin C include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
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Well, the obvious culprits include a low fiber diet, repeatedly ignoring the urge to go, not drinking enough water, or a lack of exercise. Here are 13 possible causes of constipation you may not have considered.
2. Calcium
It’s recommended that adults get between 1,000 and 1,200 milligrams of calcium every day — and it’s especially important for women to get enough calcium to fight off osteoporosis, Dr. Jouhourian says.
A glass of milk, for example, provides calcium, protein, fat and potassium. While the GI tract is not fully understood, it’s thought that calcium doesn’t allow for good hydration in the intestine, which then leads to constipation, Dr. Jouhourian says. Dr. Jouhourian recommends people drink 64 ounces of water per day or more if they’re physically active.
Some calcium supplements may cause more GI distress than others.