Managing chronic constipation in older adults is an important part of improving their quality of life. There are many options available to assist them with constipation. To help them manage constipation, you can also try medication.
To solve constipation, increase fiber intake. Fiber helps move food through the colon. It also reduces hard and dry stool. To soften their stool, you can also add water. Some older adults will need to use suppositories to soften impacted stools. These suppositories don't cause any harm and are completely safe.
Keep a record of your bowel movements. This will help you and your healthcare provider determine the reason for constipation. This will help you to spot any new symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about constipation in an elderly person. They might be able to prescribe an oral laxative or enema to alleviate the symptoms.
Constipation can be caused by lifestyle choices in many cases. For example, lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to constipation. Some medical conditions, medications or hormone imbalances can also cause constipation. Because every person is different, it can sometimes be difficult to diagnose constipation. There are several tests that can be done to identify the root cause.
The American Society for Gastroenterology recommends that older adults be evaluated for pelvic floor dysfunction. Biofeedback is an option for those with infrequent elimination. Rectal exams may be necessary. This will help your healthcare provider determine if constipation may be an emergency.
Senior adults suffering from constipation should consider increasing their fluid intake. This is especially important if they are taking medications that interfere with bowel movement. These include anti-depressants and iron supplements, calcium channel blocking drugs, and pain medications. It is also an excellent idea to increase your exercise.
A daily journal of your bowel movements can be helpful in determining the cause of constipation. Keep track of the medicines that you take and the stools that you pass. Note any changes to your diet. Some examples of foods that can trigger a bowel movement are prunes, applesauce, prune juice, prunes, and prune liqueur.
Constipation is something that can be both uncomfortable and difficult to manage. It can affect your ability to eat and walk. It can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and difficulty passing stool. Constipation symptoms can include nausea, bloody stool, and diarrhea.
If you have a loved one who is suffering from constipation, you should talk to their healthcare provider. They can help you determine if your loved one is experiencing constipation as an emergency and will also be able to provide a plan to get them back on track.
FAQ
How can I get enough vitamins
Most of your daily vitamin requirements can be met by diet alone. Supplements may be necessary if you are not getting enough of a particular vitamin. A multivitamin can contain all the vitamins that you need. You can also purchase individual vitamins from your local pharmacy.
Talk to your doctor to find out which foods are rich in vitamins. You can find vitamins K and E in dark green leafy vegetable such as spinach, kale and turnip leaves, as well romaine lettuce and arugula.
Ask your doctor to help you determine the right amount of vitamin. Based on your medical history, and current health status, your doctor will recommend the right dosage.
Exercise: Good or bad for immunity?
Exercise is good to your immune system. Your body makes white blood cells that fight infections when you exercise. You also get rid of toxins from your body. Exercise helps prevent diseases like cancer and heart disease. It reduces stress.
However, exercising too much can weaken your immune system. When you exercise too hard, your muscles will become sore. This can lead to inflammation and swelling. Your body then needs to make more antibodies in order to fight infection. Problem is, extra antibodies can trigger allergies and other autoimmune conditions.
So, don't overdo it!
What should I eat?
You should eat lots of vegetables and fruits. These vegetables and fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals that will keep your immune system strong. Also, fruits and veggies are rich in fiber. This makes them filling as well as helping with digestion. Aim to eat five to six servings of fruit or veg each day.
You should also drink lots of water. Water flushes toxins out of the body and helps to feel full between meals. Drink about eight glasses each day.
Consume whole grains and not refined. Whole grains are rich in nutrients such as iron, zinc and magnesium. Refined grains lack some nutrition.
Avoid sugary beverages. Sugary drinks are full of empty calories and lead to obesity. Choose water, milk or unsweetened tea instead.
Avoid fast food. Fast food is low in nutritional value. While it might taste good, it won't give your body the energy it needs to function properly. Stick to healthier options such as salads, soups, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.
Limit alcohol consumption. You should limit your alcohol intake as it contains empty calories and can lead to poor nutrition. Limit your consumption to no more then two alcoholic beverages per week.
Reduce your consumption of red meat. Red meats can be high in cholesterol and saturated fat. Choose lean cuts such as beef, pork and lamb, chicken, fish, or turkey.
Statistics
- This article received 11 testimonials and 86% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. (wikihow.com)
- According to the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, low-fat dairy and whole grains is needed for optimal energy. (mayoclinichealthsystem.org)
- nutrients.[17]X Research sourceWhole grains to try include: 100% whole wheat pasta and bread, brown rice, whole grain oats, farro, millet, quinoa, and barley. (wikihow.com)
- In both adults and children, the intake of free sugars should be reduced to less than 10% of total energy intake. (who.int)
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What does the term "vitamins" mean?
Vitamins are organic compounds that can be found in foods. Vitamins help us absorb nutrients in the foods we consume. The body cannot make vitamins; therefore, they must be obtained from food.
There are two types of vitamins: water soluble and fat soluble. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve readily in water. Vitamin C,B1(thiamine), B2 (2riboflavin), and B3 (3niacin), as well as vitamin C,B1, B2 (riboflavin), and B3 (niacin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin folic acid (biotin), pantothenic, and choline are examples. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored within the liver and in fatty tissue. Some examples include vitamin D and E, K, A, beta carotene, and A-vitamins.
Vitamins can be classified according to biological activity. There are eight major types of vitamins.
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A - essential for normal growth and maintenance of health.
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C is important for nerve function and energy production.
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D - necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
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E - required for good vision & reproduction.
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K - required for healthy muscles and nerves.
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P - essential for strong bones, teeth and tendons
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Q - Aids in digestion and absorption.
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R – Required for making red blood vessels.
The recommended daily intake (RDA), of vitamins varies with age, gender and physical conditions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has established the RDA values.
For adults 19 years and over, the RDA vitamin A intake is 400mg/day. Pregnant women require 600 micrograms daily to support fetal development. Children ages 1-8 require 900 micrograms per day. Infants below one year of age need 700 micrograms daily. But, between 9 months to 12 months of age, the amount drops to 500micrograms per days.
Children ages 1-18years who are obese need 800 micrograms per day while those who are overweight need 1000 micrograms per day and children who are underweight need 1200 micrograms per day to meet their nutritional needs.
Children between 4-8 years of age who have been diagnosed by anemia must consume 2200 micrograms daily of vitamin C.
2000 micrograms per person is necessary for general health. Breastfeeding or pregnant women require 3000 micrograms per daily due to higher nutrient demands.
1500 micrograms are required daily by adults over 70 because they lose approximately 10% of their muscle each decade.
Women who are pregnant, nursing or breastfeeding need more than the RDA. Pregnant woman need 4000 micrograms daily in pregnancy and 2500 per day after childbirth. Breastfeeding mothers need 5000 micrograms per day when breast milk is being produced.