Living with constipation is no fun; but unless you have an underlying medical reason for this problem, it probably stems from diet. It should come as no surprise that what you eat is important for determining the ease of bowel movements. Other factors that can contribute to constipation are a lack of exercise and not drinking enough water. If you suffer with constipation, here are some constipation causing foods you'll want to avoid.
Constipation Causing Foods: Dairy products

Dairy foods such as milk and cheese cause constipation due to the substantial amounts of calcium they contain. They also lack fiber and are a source of the milk protein casein which slows down bowel motility. In children, constipation can sometimes be a sign of a milk intolerance. Surprisingly, it may the only sign '" which means it's important to get it checked out. Be cautious of eating too many dairy products if you're prone to constipation.

 

Constipation Causing Foods: Processed Foods
Many processed and packaged foods cause constipation '" mainly because they lack fiber. To prevent constipation, most experts recommend getting one gram of fiber per hundred calories consumed. Eliminating white flour completely and replacing it with whole grains is one of the most effective ways to have more regular bowel movements '" along with eating more fruits and vegetables. When you make these changes you'll be doing your colon a favor - not to mention reducing your risk of colon cancer.

Constipation Causing Foods: Too Much Red Meat
Red meat is high in fat and lacks colon friendly fiber which is why meat eaters usually have more problems with constipation compared to their vegetarian counterparts. Try replacing some of the red meat in your diet with vegetarian proteins such as beans and lentils with brown rice or choose a high protein, high fiber grain such as quinoa in place of some of the red meat you eat on a daily basis.

Constipation Causing Foods: Iron
Iron supplements are known to cause constipation. If you're not deficient in iron, try getting it from natural food sources such as lentils, beans, pumpkin seeds, and iron fortified whole grain cereals instead of taking an iron supplement. Most people don't need iron supplements unless they have low iron stores iron deficiency anemia. Too much iron can cause health problems.

Constipation Causing Foods: The Bottom Line?
Most people can remedy constipation problems by making smart food decisions. Eat more fiber, drink more water, and stay away from these well known constipation causers.