Fibre-rich foods

In healthy adults, fibre helps our digestive system work efficiently. It is not absorbed into the body during digestion, instead, it passes all the way through the digestive process, and is expelled when we defecate. Fibre helps keep the contents of the colon soft, and makes it easier for the muscles of the colon to push it along.

If you suffer from constipation, you may be concerned that you do not have enough fibre in your diet. While maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is always advisable, it is important to note that contrary to what you might think, a diet poor in fibre should not be assumed to cause constipation. Also, while some constipation sufferers may benefit from a fibre-rich diet, in many people with more severe constipation increased fibre intake actually makes symptoms worse.

Reference

1. Müller-Lissner SA, Kamm MA, Scarpignato C, Wald A. Myths and Misconceptions About Chronic Constipation. American Journal of Gastroenterology 2005; www.amjgastro.com