Constipation is a common challenge, especially for individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis. Factors such as chemotherapy, dietary changes, and emotional stress can contribute to irregular bowel movements. Fortunately, several simple lifestyle strategies can help address both the symptoms and underlying causes of constipation. Here are five naturopathic tips to help support digestive health and promote regularity.
- Optimize Fiber Intake
- Increasing fiber intake is one of the most effective ways to support bowel regularity. However, for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, it’s important to choose gentle, easy-to-digest sources:
- Soluble Fiber: Found in oats, apples, carrots, and psyllium husk, soluble fiber forms a gel-like substance that softens stool.
- Insoluble Fiber: Present in spinach, zucchini, and sweet potatoes, this fiber adds bulk to stool, promoting movement through the intestines.
- When increasing fiber intake, be sure to also increase water consumption to aid digestion and prevent further discomfort. Start slowly and adjust based on your body’s response, especially if experiencing nausea or GI upset from treatment.
- Increasing fiber intake is one of the most effective ways to support bowel regularity. However, for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, it’s important to choose gentle, easy-to-digest sources:
- Hydrate with Herbal Teas
- Dehydration is a common contributor to constipation, particularly during cancer treatment. In addition to drinking enough water, herbal teas can offer digestive support:
- Ginger Tea: Stimulates digestion and soothes nausea while promoting intestinal movement.
- Peppermint Tea: Soothes the digestive tract and reduces bloating.
- Fennel Tea: Helps relieve constipation while reducing gas and bloating.
- Aim for 6-8 cups of fluid daily, adjusting based on individual hydration needs and treatment plans. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider regarding any potential interactions with medications.
- Dehydration is a common contributor to constipation, particularly during cancer treatment. In addition to drinking enough water, herbal teas can offer digestive support:
- Incorporate Gentle Exercise and Movement
- Physical activity plays a key role in stimulating digestion. Light movement such as walking or gentle yoga can encourage natural peristalsis (the movement of the intestines). Regular exercise has also been shown to boost energy levels during cancer treatment. However, always listen to your body and adjust activity levels accordingly, especially if you are experiencing fatigue.
- Support Gut Health with Food-based Probiotics
- The gut microbiome is essential for digestion, but chemotherapy and other cancer treatments can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria, leading to constipation.
- Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and yogurt (including non-dairy options) support gut flora.
- Probiotic supplements with multi-strain lactobacillus and bifidobacterium species may help however always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
- Add Magnesium for Relaxation and Relief
- Magnesium is a vital mineral that helps relax muscles and promote bowel movements by drawing water into the intestines. It also helps supports the nervous system and can aid in stress reduction.
- Magnesium-rich foods include dark leafy greens, almonds, legumes, avocados, dark chocolate, soy milk, and pumpkin seeds.
- Magnesium supplements like magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide can assist with bowel regularity but should be introduced gradually to avoid diarrhea.
- Magnesium is a vital mineral that helps relax muscles and promote bowel movements by drawing water into the intestines. It also helps supports the nervous system and can aid in stress reduction.
Author: Emily Burt, CCNM Integrative Cancer Clinic Intern
Please note that the information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified professional before making any healthcare decisions or taking any actions based on the information presented here.