One in five people over 30 years of age has experienced constipation at some point. While people easily talk about their sore throat, most are embarrassed to discuss their digestive issues.

Constipation is often accompanied with stomach pain. It can not only ruin your day but also have debilitating effects on your health. Getting over-the-counter medication may not solve the issue. In fact, these medications may rarely work to alleviate your condition.

The first step to treating constipation is to determine its cause. While low fibre diet and less water intake are common reasons, there are other causes you may not be aware of.

1.    Painkillers

Narcotics type painkillers can cause constipation. But how does a painkiller affect your digestive system?

Most of the receptors for narcotics reside in your digestive tract, hence the affect. In fact, people on these pain killers are often prescribed a gentle laxative too. People with chronic pain disorders very often take pain killers and are at a higher risk of constipation.

2.    Chocolate

Yes, we all love chocolate, but anything out of proportion can be unhealthy. So is the case with chocolate. However, these effects are not universal. If you think chocolate has that effect on your system, cut back on it. Or, go with a bar which has low cocoa content.

3.    Dairy products

Cheese and other low-fibre food, such as eggs and meat, can slow down digestion. What should you do instead? First, cut down on these food items. Secondly, increase your fibre intake.

An easy way to do this is to add vegetables or other high-fibre food anytime you have eggs, cheese or meat. Avoid fast food too – processed and fast food are usually low in fibre.

4.    Antidepressants

It’s not clear why most antidepressants have unruly effects on your digestive system.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI-based medicines including Prozac can cause constipation. However, the problem is also associated with tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil. If you’re taking antidepressants, again, include more high fibre foods in your diet.

5.    Diabetes

People with advanced diabetic condition are well aware of their disorder. However, if you have chronic diabetes, you should consider getting a blood sugar test done. Diabetes may cause nerve damage which can affect your system.

As you can see, medications can worsen constipation. If you have similar digestive complaints, we’d suggest trying homeopathy for your digestive problems. We have a number of remedies for constipation and bloating.

Apart from homeopathy, we also provide acupuncture and remedial massage therapies. Exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent constipation, diarrhoea and other digestive disorders.