Treating Low-grade Constipation Effectively : Your online pharmacy selection

What is low-grade constipation?

Low-grade constipation refers to a slowing of intestinal transit in the colon and rectum, leading to difficulty in passing stools, which can become hard and dry. This type of constipation is often caused by a lack of fiber in the diet, insufficient hydration, low levels of physical activity or changes in daily routine.

How to recognize the symptoms of low-grade constipation?

The main symptoms of low-grade constipation include reduced frequency of bowel movements (less than three times a week), hard, dry stools, excessive straining during evacuation, a feeling of incomplete emptying and sometimes abdominal pain. Constipation can also cause bloating and abdominal discomfort.

What are the common causes of low-grade constipation?

The causes of low-grade constipation vary but generally include:

• Low-fiber diet: Low consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water on a daily basis.
• Lack of exercise: Physical inactivity slows intestinal transit.
• Changes in routine: Travel or changes in usual schedules that disrupt intestinal habits.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as opioid analgesics, can cause constipation.

How to prevent and treat constipation?

To prevent and treat low-grade constipation, it is advisable to adopt the following measures:

• Increase fiber intake: Include more fruit, vegetables, legumes and wholegrain cereals in your diet.
• Hydration: Drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water a day.
• Regular exercise: Engage in physical activity such as walking, swimming or cycling to stimulate intestinal transit.
• Avoid constipating drugs: Talk to a healthcare professional about adjusting or changing medications that may be contributing to constipation.
• Establish a routine: Try to regularize bathroom visits, especially after meals.

When should you consult a doctor about low-grade constipation?

It's important to consult a healthcare professional if low-grade constipation persists despite lifestyle changes, or if it's accompanied by symptoms such as intense abdominal pain, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss or vomiting. These symptoms could indicate a more serious medical condition requiring intervention.

What foods promote good intestinal health to avoid low-grade constipation?

To maintain good intestinal health and prevent low-grade constipation, focus on fiber-rich foods. Fruits such as plums, pears and apples are excellent. Green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and cabbage, as well as legumes (lentils, chickpeas), nuts and seeds, and wholegrain cereals (oats, quinoa) are also recommended. These foods help to increase the volume and suppleness of stools, making them easier to pass.

How does hydration influence low-grade constipation?

Adequate hydration is crucial to preventing and treating low-grade constipation. Water helps soften stool, making it easier to pass through the colon. We recommend drinking between 1.5 and 2 liters of water a day. Drinking warm liquids, such as herbal teas or lukewarm lemon water, can also stimulate intestinal transit.

Can low-grade constipation be a symptom of more serious health problems?

Yes, low-grade constipation can sometimes indicate more serious medical conditions such as endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism), diabetes, neurological disorders or intestinal obstructions. If constipation is accompanied by symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or symptoms that persist despite lifestyle changes, it's imperative to consult a doctor.

Are there any natural remedies for low-grade constipation?

Several natural remedies can help relieve low-grade constipation. Psyllium is a fiber supplement that increases stool volume. Probiotics, such as kefir or plain yoghurt, can also help balance intestinal flora and improve digestion.