Constipation and Weight Gain

With more and more people vying for weight loss and a good physique, a basic idea about weight gain causes can be beneficial. There are many physical and emotional conditions, which can cause weight gain. Apart from these, lifestyle factors can also lead to weight gain. These include health problems, like, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovarian syndrome, imbalance of blood sugar, etc. Weight gain is also related to emotional conditions, like, depression, stress, etc. A sedentary lifestyle without exercise, lack of sleep, etc. can also be associated with weight gain. But a new concept that is surfacing is constipation and weight gain. Yes, now even constipation is being considered as a cause of weight gain. Scroll down for more details regarding constipation and weight gain.

Does Constipation Cause Weight Gain?

If the number of bowel movements in a week is less than three, such a condition is termed as constipation. This condition makes the stools hard, as the fecal matter remains in the colon for a much longer time and most of the water is absorbed. This condition leads to painful or difficult defecation and a sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation. Almost all people suffer from occasional constipation, but, there are some, who experience recurring constipation, which may be a cause of weight gain and other health problems. The relation between constipation and weight gain is still a much debated topic, but, there are some theories that suggest a direct link between both conditions. The following are some of the reasons put forward to substantiate the link between the two conditions. In case of people with constipation, their bodies find it difficult to eliminate waste or accumulated fecal matter. This affects metabolism, which becomes slow, resulting in weight gain. Another reason lies in the simple fact that accumulated waste materials in the body adds extra weight to the body. The food we eat does not get eliminated, but gets blocked in the intestine, causing weight gain. Constipation may also cause water retention, which in turn causes weight gain. Now, you know the association between weight gain and constipation. However, if constipation is accompanied by additional symptoms, like, shortness of breath, tremors, hair loss, hunger, etc. then you should consult a doctor to diagnose the medical condition, which may be behind the symptoms.

Factors Related to Constipation and Weight Gain

As mentioned earlier, constipation and the resultant weight gain can be caused by many factors. Constipation can occur as a result of dehydration, problems in rectum or colon, intake of certain medications, intestinal problems, irritable bowel syndrome, lack of physical activities, sudden change in lifestyle, intake of certain foods, insufficient intake of dietary fiber, stress, etc. You have to find out the cause of constipation, in order to combat the condition. If the cause is a medical condition, treat it to avoid further complications. In case of other factors, changes in diet and lifestyle will be sufficient to control constipation and weight gain.

You can prevent constipation and weight gain by resorting to regular exercises, drinking lots of water, including fiber-rich foods in the diet and by avoiding a sedentary lifestyle. Avoid overeating and consumption of caffeinated drinks and other processed foods. Some people resort to colon cleanse as a remedy for constipation. However, long-term use of laxatives and stool softeners are also not recommended, as it can worsen the condition in the long run. The body will get used to these stimulants, and will find it difficult to expel the feces without an expected dose. In short, it is better to adopt natural remedial measures to combat constipation, or treat the underlying cause and then check the difference in the weight scale.