Myths and Truths About Constipation

Constipation Myths and Truths

Knowledge is power, and knowing the truth about constipation—its causes and cures—may get you started on the road to regularity. Here are some common myths and the honest truths about constipation:

Myth 1: If you don't have one bowel movement a day, it's abnormal.
The Truth: Less than 50 percent of people have one bowel movement a day.
Myth 2: Fewer than five or six bowel movements a week is considered to be chronic constipation.
The Truth: Ninety-five percent of adults have bowel movements between three and 21 times per week. The entire range—even just three bowel movements a week—is normal.
Myth 3: Toxins accumulate in the intestine when bowel movements are infrequent.
The Truth: Contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence that "toxins" accumulate when bowel movements are infrequent or that constipation leads to disease such as cancer.
Myth 4: If you eat right, exercise and drink plenty of fluids, you should never suffer from constipation.
The Truth: Sometimes psychological issues trigger chronic constipation. For instance, childhood sexual or physical abuse—or the loss of a parent through divorce, separation or death—may contribute to adult constipation. Constipation often coexists with depression and low thyroid hormone levels.