Causes of Constipation?
Constipation occurs when bowel movements get less frequent or become more difficult to pass. Everyone has experienced this phenomenon, whether due to stress, shifting dietary habits, or travel. It is usually temporary, but knowing the triggers can enable gentle and more lasting relief.
To explore the condition in detail, see our treatment guide on constipation
.
Lifestyle Triggers
Daily habits affect the digestive process, which can influence the frequency of bowel movements.
Listed below are the more common, yet avoidable, lifestyle factors:
- Inadequate dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains)
- Dehydration
- Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged sitting
- Routine disruptions, travel, and irregular sleep or meal timing.
- Excessive consumption of cheese or other dairy products
- Stress
- Social-faecal incontinence
- Toilet delay
Learn more about how these internal factors show up in day-to-day life in the symptoms of constipation
Internal Causes
In certain cases, constipation can be linked to internal factors within the system.
A few internal factors include:
- Hormonal changes such as during pregnancy or issues with the thyroid.
- Nerve or muscle issues that lead to a reduction in the pace of bowel movement.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- Blockage or narrowing of the bowel.
- Reduced pace of bowel movement (colonic inertia).
External Causes
Factors outside your body can also interfere with digestion:
- Certain medications (painkillers, antidepressants, iron or calcium supplements)
- Post-surgery recovery or reduced mobility
- Crash diets or low-calorie eating
- Overuse of laxatives, which can make the bowel sluggish over time
Lifestyle and Environmental Risks
Your surroundings and lifestyle also influence your digestive rhythm:
- Hot weather or dehydration
- Irregular schedules or night shifts
- High stress levels
- Limited bathroom access, leading to stool withholding
A healthy routine and hydration are simple yet powerful ways to keep your gut active.
Looking for Lasting Relief from Constipation Causes?
Beyond quick fixes, homeopathy focuses on long-term management by treating your unique constipation triggers safely and gently.
Risk Groups
Constipation can affect anyone, but some people are more prone to it:
- Older adults, as metabolism and activity slow down
- Pregnant women, due to hormonal and physical changes
- Children, especially during toilet training
- People with low-fiber diets
- Those with chronic conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism
Being aware of your risk factors helps you take early preventive steps.
Can It Be Prevented?
Yes! Most cases of constipation can be prevented with small but consistent changes:
- Eat more fiber-rich foods fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Drink plenty of water every day
- Stay physically active
- Don’t ignore the natural urge to pass stool
- Practice stress management and maintain a daily routine
Simple lifestyle habits often restore balance naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best remedy for constipation?
Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and avoiding processed foods are the best natural ways to relieve constipation. In homeopathy, individualized remedies help stimulate your body’s natural rhythm for long-term relief.
What are the main causes of constipation?
The leading causes include low fiber diet, dehydration, sedentary lifestyle, stress, and certain medications that slow bowel movement.
Is constipation a serious problem?
Occasional constipation is common, but if it becomes frequent or chronic, it’s important to consult a doctor to rule out underlying issues like thyroid imbalance or intestinal blockage.
Which vitamin deficiency causes constipation?
Deficiency in vitamin B12 or vitamin D can slow down digestion and lead to constipation by affecting muscle and nerve function in the intestines.
Don’t let Constipation affect your daily life
Safe and effective homeopathy treatment is just a step away.
Reviewed by the Dr. Beri Medical Team
Our team of qualified homeopathy doctors with 50+ years combined clinical experience ensures that all health content is medically accurate and trustworthy.
Meet Our Medical Team