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Constipation - Management
What should I advise about the role of diet in preventing and treating constipation?
- In general, the diet should be balanced and contain whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Fibre intake should be increased gradually (to minimize flatulence and bloating) and maintained for life.
- Adults should aim to consume 18–30 g fibre per day.
- Although the effects of a high fibre diet may be seen in a few days, it may take as long as 4 weeks.
- Adequate fluid intake is important (particularly with a high fibre diet or fibre supplements), but can be difficult for some people (e.g. frail or elderly).
- Fruits high in fibre and sorbitol (e.g. apricots and prunes) and fruit juices high in sorbitol can help prevent and treat constipation.
In depth
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