Misunderstandings about constipation

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

There are many myths surrounding constipation and it's time people were aware of what works and what does not.
Chronic constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. It's uncomfortable but not, in itself, dangerous. There are many beliefs about constipation and Professor Stefan Müller-Lissner of Humboldt University, Berlin, points out there's not much evidence for some of them.

For instance, fiber does increase stool bulk and frequency, but is not a proven cure for constipation. Only one in five with slow transit of bowel contents were helped by a high fiber diet. Indeed, some patients can find their problems worsen if they increase their fiber intake.

Increased fluids do not help bowel activity, unless the patient is actually dehydrated. And chronic use of laxatives does not cause nerve damage, nor cancer. Laxatives on the market today are safe if taken appropriately. And surgery for constipation is rarely needed.

Source
American Journal of Gastroenterology January 2005

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