Nutrition and Aging

		Bernadette Latson, MS, RD/LD Section Editor, Nutrition in Aging Section Editor, Vitamins and Dietary Supplements -Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Nutrition -Director, Coordinated Program in Clinical Dietetics UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas

Seniors: You can make an impact on constipation - walk!
Posted: February 2005
Source: UT Southwestern Health News Tips
Media Contact: Kara Lenocker

Constipation, often considered a taboo topic of discussion, affects about 2 percent of Americans. It's a common complaint among senior citizens and women.

Causes of constipation include stress, a lack of water, fiber, or exercise, a disruption in your daily routine, overuse of laxatives, and some medications.

Exercise is a key solution. "If people are sedentary this should help," says geriatric specialist  Dr. Craig Rubin, professor of internal medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center. "Reduced physical activity can contribute significantly to problems of constipation. Physical activity, like walking 20 minutes a day, may reduce or eliminate the need for laxatives."

Relief also can be found by eating more fruit, especially the skin because it contains the most fiber. Vegetables, legumes, whole-grain bread and bran cereal also can help.

Laxatives should not be used for more than two weeks. If constipation persists, consult your doctor.