Lifestyle modifications

NUTRITION

  • A high fiber diet, 20-35g per day (1, 2)
  • Adequate fluid intake (1)
  • Prunes (dried plums) are as effective as psyllium in relieving constipation and may be an alternative to laxatives (1, 2)

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

  • Regular non-strenous exercise may help with constipation, particularly if the person is previously sedentary or physically inactive (1)
  • Avoid postponing bowel movements when urge to defecate is felt (1)

References

1) https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/154/management-approach

2) https://www.uptodate.com/contents/management-of-chronic-constipation-in-adults

Resources

EXPLANATION TO EVIDENCE PRESENTATION

Figure: Evidence pyramid

​Evidence based on guidelines and evidence based Clinical Decision Systems is written in BOLD font

​Evidence based on meta analysis or systematic reviews is written in BOLD and CURSIVE font

​Evidence based on randomized controlled trials is written in PLAIN font

​Evidence based on observational / cohort studies is written in CURSIVE font