Menopause & Constipation

One of the rarely discussed complications of menopause is constipation. Constipation occurs during menopause for a number of reasons but primarily because of hormonal fluctuations and the fact that your gastrointestinal tract is slowing down, which also affects your digestive system sometimes resulting in indigestion.

What You're Eating

• If you are eating too much or the wrong things, this will contribute to constipation. Skip the sugary foods and those foods that contain lots of carbohydrates.

Herbal Relief

• Menopauseatoz.com recommends using natural products that contain lobelia, goldenseal root, gentian, fenugreek seed, meadowsweet and fennel seed to provide you with gentle relief.

Eat Slowly and Chew Well

• When you eat, eat slowly and chew your food well. This allows the digestive enzymes to break down the contents of your meal and direct the contents to be stored in the liver and muscle where they are needed.

The Benefits of Fiber

• Get more fiber in your diet, suggests Menopauseinsight.com. Eat cereals and whole grain breads. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day, eat fruits and vegetables and drink fruit juices.

Medications May Be Constipating You

• Medicine for high blood pressure, such as Clonidine, as well as narcotic painkillers, antidepressants, calcium and iron supplements can all result in constipation. Discuss this with your doctor and figure out the best way to approach your constipation problems.