Many elderly people suffer from constipation, which is influenced by physiological, disease-related, medication, environmental, psychological, and lifestyle factors.
From a physiological perspective, as the elderly age, their bodily functions decline, leading to slower intestinal motility and weakened anal sphincter muscles, resulting in difficulty with bowel movements.
From a disease perspective, elderly individuals with hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other conditions may avoid defecation due to pain, leading to chronic constipation.
From a lifestyle perspective, many elderly people prefer high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt foods and do not consume enough fresh fruits and vegetables. This dietary preference can slow intestinal motility and cause excessive absorption of water from the stool, leading to constipation.
Some elderly individuals use enemas, senna leaves, and lactulose oral solutions to deal with constipation. While these medications can relieve symptoms in the short term, they have significant side effects. By stimulating intestinal motility, they can promote bowel movements, but long-term reliance can cause intestinal dysfunction, worsening constipation.
It is recommended to choose foods that lubricate the intestines, promote peristalsis, and increase stool water content, such as honey, bananas, and walnuts. These foods contain rich enzymes, dietary fiber, fructose, fats, and proteins, which can promote intestinal peristalsis and keep the stool moist.
Follow the principles of "eating more, eating in moderation, and avoiding imbalance." Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits; consume a moderate amount of vegetable oils; avoid excessive intake of high-fat, high-sugar, and low-fiber foods; maintain a balanced diet to provide the body with various necessary nutrients.
Drink enough water every day. Adequate water can soften the stool, making it easier to pass. However, limit the intake of caffeine, sugar-sweetened beverages, and other irritants.
Regularly consume probiotics and beneficial bacteria in your daily diet. They can help maintain the balance of the intestinal flora, which has a positive effect on preventing constipation.