Constipation can be caused by many different factors. Probiotics work to restore normal function to the colon and alleviate symptoms – providing much-needed relief.
Probiotics may cause side effects in some individuals, including gas and bloating. However, these side effects should subside within several days as their bodies adjust to the new bacteria in their systems.
What is Constipation?
Constipation refers to the infrequent passage of dry, hard stools; this differs from loose stools which can be easily pushed out. Although any person can experience constipation, pregnant women, children, the elderly and those from low socioeconomic situations are at increased risk.
Your gut bacteria (or “microbial ecosystem”) plays an essential role in maintaining digestive health. Probiotics play an essential part in helping your body absorb essential nutrients, speed up digestion via peristalsis (wave-like muscular contractions in the bowel) and lowering pH levels within the colon – all which encourage regular bowel movements.
However, adding new bacteria to your gut microbiome can sometimes produce temporary side effects, including bloating and increased flatulence which may interrupt regular bowel movement patterns. While these symptoms typically only last a few days at most, probiotics may help alleviate constipation altogether or help stop future episodes!
What are the Symptoms of Constipation?
Constipation symptoms may include changes to the frequency and consistency of your stool, pain while pooping, or feeling like everything hasn’t left your system yet. If this describes you, make an appointment with your healthcare provider immediately.
Your doctor will ask about your health history and conduct a physical exam, checking for hemorrhoids (red, swollen veins in your rectum caused by straining to have a bowel movement) or anal fissures (tears in your anus skin) as well as possible signs of fecal impaction; which occurs when hard stool packs tight into both colon and rectum in such a way that it cannot be easily expelled through pushing outward pressure.
Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy procedures may be prescribed in order to examine your lower gastrointestinal tract in greater detail and help pinpoint the source of constipation.
How Can I Get Rid of Constipation?
Constipation can occur for various reasons. It could occur due to travel, routine changes or being pregnant, medications side effects or diet and exercise regimen changes causing constipation, etc.
Once your stool has cleared out, getting back into a regular pattern should be relatively effortless. But this may take longer if you are used to having certain numbers of bowel movements per day or week; therefore, it is crucial that you pay close attention to your client’s bowel habits and visit them when expected in the bathroom.
Encourage your client to drink plenty of water during this process to help soften and push out stool more easily. Alternatively, probiotic-rich foods like kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut or sourdough bread could help restore good bacteria in their gut to reduce bloating and gas. Doing this slowly over several days or weeks is best to minimize stomach distress.
How Can I Avoid Constipation?
Constipation affects millions of people each day. Luckily, there are ways to combat it effectively – such as eating a diet rich in fiber and drinking plenty of water; increasing physical activity; taking probiotic supplements regularly – among others.
If you do experience constipation after starting to take probiotics, it should only be temporary as your body adapts to new bacteria in your digestive system. Other potential sources for constipation could include eating too few fruits and vegetables or not drinking enough fluids.
Attempt to lower the dose for an extended period. This will give your body time to adapt to the new bacteria, and help you find what works for your digestive system. Incorporating more foods that contain insoluble fiber such as quinoa or brown rice could also be effective solutions.
Can Probiotics Cause Constipation?
Yes, probiotics can induce constipation, although it’s rare. Probiotics, live bacteria and yeasts, bring health benefits in large doses. They’re found in supplements or fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. While probiotics offer benefits, they can also trigger bloating, gas, and constipation.
Studies show that probiotics generally ease constipation and aid digestion. But if you encounter constipation with probiotics, it suggests inadequate fiber or water intake. Boost fiber consumption or take prebiotic fiber alongside probiotics.
Notably, constipation caused by probiotics is uncommon and may vanish as the body adjusts to the supplement’s ingredients, fiber, and probiotics themselves. To minimize the chance of adverse effects, start with a small probiotic dose.
In summary, probiotics can lead to constipation, but it’s infrequent. If constipation occurs, it indicates insufficient fiber or water in your diet, so increase fiber or try prebiotic fiber with probiotics.
