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Constipation is common for those of any age, and it can happen for a number of reasons. The most common is diet, where certain foods or lack of foods can cause this symptom. Not eating enough high-fiber foods and eating too much high-fat food can be dietary causes of constipation. To many people’s surprise, using too many laxatives can also cause constipation [1]. With too many uses, the body becomes accustomed to the medication and forgets how to work without it. A lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle can also cause constipation. Some medical conditions such as diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can increase the frequency of the symptom. Lastly, certain medications can disrupt bowel movement as well. People that suffer from constipation should talk to their doctor, who may recommend the following; adding fiber to their diet, staying hydrated, and staying active [1].
Each person’s body reacts to food in different ways, making it difficult to label foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ for constipation. Some general rules to follow are; foods with low fiber don’t promote healthy bowel movements and high protein foods can cause constipation [3]. Eggs are a great way to receive a lot of different nutrients, containing “40% of your daily vitamin D requirements, 25% of your daily Folate requirement, 20% of your daily selenium requirement and good amounts of vitamin B2, B12, B5, A, iron, iodine, and phosphorus” [2]. Eggs are not specifically associated with causing or helping constipation, as they can affect everyone differently. Following the general rule about low fiber and high protein, they could cause constipation, but it also depends on the person.
The best way to avoid constipation is to keep a balanced diet. Incorporating the recommended percentages of each food group can help relieve and avoid constipation. Another option is talking to a doctor and experiencing what works best for one’s body!
References
1. Concerned About Constipation? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/concerned-about-constipation
2. Farahat, D. I. (2021, December 14). Do Eggs Cause Constipation? Facts and Myths. - Oh My Gut: IBS and Gut Health Blog. Retrieved from https://www.oh-mygut.com/eggs-constipation/
3. Gilmerm. (2020, October 14). Are Eggs OK to Eat If You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/are-eggs-okay-to-eat-if-you-have-irritable-bowel-syndrome/
Contributors:
Author: Sophie Gangi
Editor: Kayjah Taylor
Health Scientist: Ashlee Lee