Our digestive systems love consistency and routine, and when life throws that off, whether through stress, travel, new career or a change in diet, your bowels may go on a bit of a strike.
Constipation is incredibly common, and sometimes it doesn’t take much to throw your system out of balance. Here are some of the most common (and surprising) reasons you might be feeling backed up:
1. Stress
Stress is one of the most underrated, yet powerful, contributors to constipation. When you're stressed, your body shifts into “fight or flight” mode, which diverts energy away from your digestive system.
That can slow everything down, literally.
Worse still, stress about being constipated can make the problem even worse and it becomes a vicious cycle.
The solution?
Actively finding ways to relax your body and mind. You may not be able to control every situation, but you can control how you respond to it. Deep breathing, light movement, or a calming routine might be just the thing to get your system back on track. You could also add in herbal supplements or a calming tea like Happy Mind Tea to help quiet your mind and relax your body.
2. Surgery
Post-surgery constipation is incredibly common and often overlooked.
Your body has just undergone trauma, and between the stress, pain medications, limited mobility, and changes in diet, your digestive system might decide to take a break too.
It can be frustrating, especially when you’re already trying to recover, but it’s a side effect that many experience. Post surgery medication can cause a sudden onset of constipation and until the condition is addressed become extremely uncomfortable.
One way to be proactive to ensure you don’t struggle with this issue post-surgery, is to start taking a natural stool softener like ConstaClear in the lead up to your surgery and for a short time-post surgery as your body recovers.
3. Medications and Supplements
Most medications come with a long list of side effects, and constipation often makes an appearance. It’s particularly common in medications used to treat anxiety, depression, and pain. Unfortunately, while these medications are helping one part of your body or mind, they can slow down your gut in the process. Managing your constipation long term while on these medications may be required.
Iron supplements can also cause constipation as a side effect, largely because iron is challenging for the body to absorb efficiently. When excess iron remains unabsorbed in the digestive system, it can disrupt the natural balance of the gut, leading to slower bowel movements and harder stools.
Many people do warm water enemas or take ConstaClear as part of their wellness routine to ensure they are having regular bowel movements while on these medications.
4. Travel
You’re away from home, out of your usual rhythm, maybe eating different foods, and suddenly, your digestive system hits pause. Sound familiar?
Travel constipation is real.
Your body thrives on routine, including when and how you go to the bathroom. When you disrupt that, even just by sleeping in a different bed or adjusting your eating schedule, your system can get confused. The body also feels most safe in your home environment. There are many ways you can manage constipation naturally while away from home and our Happy Bum Kits are designed for travel!
5. Your Job
Certain careers don’t exactly support regular bathroom breaks. Teachers, truck drivers, nurses, security guards - many professions demand long hours with limited personal time - and that includes toilet breaks!
Even office jobs, where the restroom is only a few feet away, can bring anxiety about privacy or timing. Over time, this can teach your body to “hold it,” and that can disrupt your natural urges.
Ongoing constipation can often be a result of such careers and takes management to ensure things are emptying properly.
6. Fibre (Yes, it’s true!)
Fibre is essential for healthy digestion, but it’s all about balance. Too little and things slow down. Too much, especially too quickly. and you might experience bloating, gas, or even worse constipation. It’s important to increase fibre gradually and make sure you're drinking enough water to help it move smoothly through your system. Fibre and hydration work hand in hand.
If you are already constipated and have dry or hard stools, fibre will actually make things worse. You need to hydrate and soften the stools and this is where ConstaClear can be a game changer!
7. Laxatives
Chemical laxatives can offer temporary relief, but over time, they can worsen the problem if your body becomes reliant on them.
The more often you use them, the more your body may stop functioning on its own. If you’ve been reaching for laxatives frequently, it might be time to investigate more sustainable, long-term solutions with the help of a healthcare provider.
We suggest switching to ConstaClear to do things the natural way. ConstaClear is a natural laxative that contains heavy magnesium oxide which softens the stool to ease bowel motions. It is designed to relieve constipation and reduce the occurrence of abdominal bloating in adults. ConstaClear is a great idea for when you’re traveling light, too.
8. Pregnancy
Pregnancy constipation is more common than many people realise and is primarily caused by hormonal and physiological changes that occur during pregnancy.
Elevated levels of progesterone relax the muscles in the digestive tract, slowing down the movement of food and waste. This can lead to sluggish bowel movements. Additionally, as the uterus expands, it puts pressure on the intestines, further disrupting their function. Iron supplements, often prescribed during pregnancy, can also contribute to constipation.
Warm water enemas are a gentle and safe option or you could try a natural supplement like ConstaClear to keep things moving pre and post pregnancy.
9. Grief or Traumatic Event
Grief or trauma can significantly impact the digestive system, including bowel function. Intense emotional distress often activates the body's stress response, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can disrupt normal digestive processes. Additionally, the nervous system’s close connection to the gut, sometimes called the "second brain," means that emotional upheaval can directly affect bowel regularity. This may lead to constipation or other gastrointestinal discomfort. Again, relaxation techniques, gentle movement, and addressing emotional health can be helpful in restoring balance.
The bottom line?
Constipation isn’t just about what you’re eating or not eating. Your lifestyle, stress levels, travel habits, and even your job can all play a part. Understanding what’s behind your sluggish system is the first step to getting things moving again, naturally and comfortably.
Suggestions for managing constipation naturally and getting relief when you need it:
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ConstaClear - A natural stool softener designed to relieve constipation and bloating (you can find it here)
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At Home Enemas - Water, Coffee or Herbal Enemas (Check out our bundles)
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Increasing Fibre & Water Intake
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Gentle Twisting Stretches
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Squatting when on the toilet or using a poop-stoop
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Deep breathing and mindfulness
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Calming tea or relaxation herbs (check out Happy Mind Tea)
You don’t need to suffer anymore!
At Happy Bum Co, we’re always happy to answer any questions you might have. Download our free Constipation Guide for more information or simply send us an email.
Get relief, naturally!
