The range of ‘normal’ is quite wide, but generally, bowel movements should occur at least every 3rd day and no more than 3 per day. Stool should pass easily and not require excessive straining. One should experience a sense of completeness of elimination. Given the range of normal, constipation may mean different things to different people.

Causes: Three factor: a low fiber diet, poor fluid intake, or lack of physical activity or exercise. Special medical conditions like diabetes, low thyroid hormone, depression or other. Diseases like Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, and tumors can block the bowel. These serious cases should be ruled out by a physician.

Treatment: Eating a diet rich in whole grain breads, cereals and fiber bars, in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, often will improve bowel habits by adding bulk to the stool. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water per day is important. Regular exercise for 30 min per day will improve bowel movements.

(Simplified from Patient Eduction Brochures of The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)