Foods we eat as part of our everyday diet may cause, worsen, or relieve constipation.

Normal stool patterns vary and are different for everyone. Some may have a bowel movement more than once a day while others may have one every other day. Normal stools should not be painful or difficult to pass.

Constipation is defined as infrequent bowel movements that are hard and difficult to pass. Constipation may occur chronically or occasionally. It may result from a diet too low in fiber or fluid, from inadequate activity, from a medical condition, or from medications.

Vegetables, fruits (especially dried fruits) and some cereals (whole wheat, bran or oatmeal) are excellent sources of fiber. It is easy to remember that the harder a vegetable is (like celery), the more fiber it has. To reap the benefits of fiber, it is very important to drink an adequate amount of water to help with the passage of stool in the intestines.

BABIES

Babies who are breastfed usually do not experience constipation. Bottle-fed infants often do. Dietary changes that may help relieve constipation in infants are as follows:

1. Offer 1 - 2 ounces of apple or prune juice from the bottle or by spoon.

2. Babies who have advanced to solids may be offered more fruits and vegetables or small amounts of bran sprinkled on top of cereal (about 1 teaspoon).

3. Babies age birth to 6 months should receive most of their fluids from breast milk or formula.

TODDLERS

The diets of older babies and toddlers should start to reflect the recommendations of the food guide pyramid.

Offer fruits and vegetables with chunkier textures as opposed to strained. Begin to offer more whole-grain breads and cereals as your child begins to tolerate a wider variety of foods. Be sure your child is drinking adequate amounts of fluid -- pay attention to this as formula or breast milk feedings decrease.

CHILDREN AND TEENS

The food guide pyramid is an excellent guide for choosing an appropriate diet. Choose whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Bran cereals can help as do prunes and prune juice.

Adequate fluid intake (8 - 10 cups a day) is also important in preventing constipation. Fluids other than water are acceptable, because children need calories for growth. However, soft drinks are not recommended. Juice should be limited to help avoid excessive caloric intake

Fluid requirements vary for children based on their size, activity level, and air temperature. To assure adequate fluids offer water more frequently during exercise and in warm temperatures.

ADULTS

A diet high in vegetables and bran cereals is very effective in treating and preventing constipation. As mentioned above, adequate water intake is as crucial as is exercise. Exercise aids the movement of stool in the intestines. This lifestyle is especially important for the elderly, for whom constipation is very common.

Medical attention is needed if constipation occurs frequently or lasts longer than 1 or 2 days.