Why do I get constipation in spite of a regular diet that contains fibre?

Doctor's Answer

Photo of Dr Wai Leong Quan
Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

Constipation is a common condition many of us encounter from time to time. Although dietary fiber is known to encourage proper bowel movement, individuals may have very different response to fiber intake.

Dietary fiber is believed to help bowel movement by forming the bulk which encourages proper bowel muscle contraction. It may also help friendly gut bacteria to grow and to maintain good gut health.

However, this is provided that there is also sufficient water intake to maintain its soft texture. Too much fiber with insufficient water can sometimes result in hard stools which paradoxically aggravates your constipation.

Other reasons for constipation include a slower gut movement due to lack of exercises or IBS, side effects from medication and consumption of supplements containing high doses of calcium or iron.

Do pay attention to other associated symptoms such as significant weight loss, change of bowel caliber and having black stools or blood stained stools. Such symptoms may point towards a serious problem in your digestive tract which requires proper evaluation.

- Dr Quan

Ask any health question for free

I’m not so sure about a procedure...

Ask Icon Ask a Question

Join Human

Sign up now for a free Human account to get answers from specialists in Singapore.

Sign Up

Get The Pill

Be healthier with our Bite-sized health news straight in your inbox