Medically Reviewed on 3/9/2022
What is the definition of constipation?
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Constipation is a common problem where people find it difficult to have bowel movements. Constipation medically is defined as less than three bowel movements per week.
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If a person has less than one bowel movement per week, they are considered to have severe constipation.
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Symptoms of bloating, gas, or pain passing bowel movements may accompany constipation.
What foods cause constipation?
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Just as there are many foods you can eat to help prevent or relieve your constipation, there are foods that can have a binding effect that can make your constipation worse. These are 15 foods to avoid when you are constipated.
Top 12 Foods for Constipation Relief
Here is a list of 12 foods to eat to help relieve constipation.
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Beans
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Berries
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Kiwi
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Flaxseed…
Read more about foods that relieve constipation »
Unripe bananas can cause constipation; ripe bananas can help relieve constipation.
1. Bananas
Bananas are a conundrum when it comes to constipation foods to avoid. It’s a matter of timing: Unripe bananas can cause constipation; ripe bananas can help relieve constipation.
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Unripe or under-ripe green bananas cause constipation because they still have a lot of starch, which can be hard for the body to digest.
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Bananas also contain dietary fiber (pectin), which draws water from the intestines toward the stool.
If someone is already dehydrated, this can make constipation worse.
Babies can also get constipated if they eat too many bananas. Moderation and a variety of fruits and veggies for your little one are the keys.
2. Chewing gum
It is not true that if you swallow a piece of gum it takes seven years to digest. However, it is true that if you swallow many pieces of gum in a short time, or if you swallow several pieces of gum with other indigestible foods such as seeds, this can create a mass that in rare cases, blocks the digestive tract. This digestive blockage can cause constipation.
Children under age 5 should not chew gum at all, and if you do chew gum, stick to just one or two pieces a day — and throw it out when you’re done chewing.
