Patient discussions

Dietary and lifestyle changes may be helpful, and evidence suggests they may be most effective when combined.[18]

Patients are advised to increase their daily dietary fibre. A diet deficient in fibre may lead to constipation, while a high-fibre diet increases stool weight and accelerates colonic transit time.[32][33]​ In people with a low calorie intake, an increased daily calorie intake is also advised. It has been shown that inadequate calorie intake can cause constipation.[35]

Patients should also be advised on adequate fluid intake, encouraged to get regular nonstrenuous exercise, and advised to dedicate time for bowel movements and to avoid postponing bowel movements when an urge for defecation is felt.[34] NHS England: ​Constipation and people with a learning disability Opens in new window​​

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