How to Relieve Constipation Quickly

If you are experiencing constipation for the first time or intermittently, treatment usually begins with dietary and lifestyle changes designed to help stool move more easily through the colon.

• Eat a high-fiber diet
• Drink plenty of water
• Exercise most days of the week
• Establish healthy bowel habits

If constipation becomes persistent or chronic — ongoing difficulty passing stools, hard or dry stools, or fewer than three bowel movements per week for more than three to four weeks — it is important to see your physician and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).

How Will I Feel if I’m Constipated?

Constipation is generally defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week or passing hard, dry stools that are difficult to eliminate.

Common symptoms include:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
• Pain or excessive straining during bowel movements
• A feeling that your bowels are not fully empty
• Abdominal bloating or discomfort

Can You Relieve Constipation?

Yes, constipation can often be relieved by improving bowel movement frequency and consistency while reducing associated symptoms such as gas, pain, and bloating.

Why Should You Work with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist?

If you have tried dietary adjustments, increased fluid intake, physical activity, and changes to your bowel habits but constipation persists, working with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who specializes in gastrointestinal conditions can help.

Goals of Medical Nutrition Therapy for Constipation

• Identify the root cause of constipation
• Develop a personalized meal plan
• Reduce or resolve accompanying symptoms such as pain, gas, and bloating

What Can I Expect at an Initial Appointment With a Registered Dietitian?

During the initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive health assessment, including a review of your gastrointestinal diagnoses and symptoms, dietary history, current medications and supplements, and lifestyle habits.

You will also receive nutrition education and individualized dietary recommendations to help you achieve your health goals.

More specifically, your initial consultation will include:

An In-Depth Bowel Symptom Assessment

To understand the nature of your constipation and tailor recommendations to your needs, we will review:

• Bowel movement frequency
• Stool form and consistency
• Incomplete evacuation
• Additional gastrointestinal symptoms

Dietary Intake Review

We will assess:

• Fluid intake, including amount, type, and frequency
• Fiber intake, including amount and type
• Meal patterns and food choices
• Eating and lifestyle behaviors
• Medications and supplements
• Medical diagnoses
• Physical activity

Creation of an Initial Nutrition Plan

Based on your assessment, we will develop an individualized plan to address your symptoms and support healthy bowel function.

What Can I Expect at Follow-Up Appointments With an RDN?

Each session focuses on reviewing and evaluating your bowel movements and symptoms, assessing the effects of dietary and lifestyle changes, and adjusting your ongoing nutrition plan as needed. Questions will be answered, and concerns will be addressed.

As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who has worked with patients for over 30 years, I can help you normalize your bowel movements and reduce accompanying symptoms such as gas, pain, and bloating. I offer online nutrition counseling to help you manage digestive issues, including constipation.