By Dr. A. Minocha,   author of  "How To Stop Heartburn: Simple Ways to Heal Heartburn and Acid Reflux" and "Natural Stomach Care: Treating and Preventing Digestive Disorders with Best of Eastern and Western Therapies"

I have constipation because I am getting old

Is it a Myth or a Fact? Find out below

Constipation is a very common bowel problem. As many as 2% of the US population is affected. It accounts for about 3 million physician consultations each year. Almost half a billion dollars is spent each year on laxatives alone. The prevalence of constipation increases as we grow older and it increases exponentially as we go past our sixties. There are multiple reasons for this increase. These include use of constipating medications, decreased exercise as well as simultaneous occurrence of non-digestive diseases affecting the gut. The maturing process by itself is not a significant contributor.

More Facts or Myths

Constipation

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem. People who experience constipation have infrequent bowel movements, pass hard stools or strain during bowel movements.

Constipation means different things to different people. What's considered normal frequency for bowel movements varies widely. In general, however, you're probably experiencing constipation if you pass fewer than three stools a week, and your stools are hard and dry. Some people with constipation lack energy and feel full or bloated. Some people think they have constipation if they don’t have a bowel movement every day. However, bowel habits are different for everyone. The foods you eat, how much you exercise, and other factors can affect your bowel habits.

Fortunately, most cases of constipation are temporary. When you understand what causes constipation, you can take steps to prevent it. Simple lifestyle changes, such as getting more exercise and eating a high-fiber diet, can go a long way toward alleviating constipation. Constipation may also be treated with over-the-counter laxatives.