Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Constipation After Having Junk Food?
Question: It used to be that I could eat just about anything and have a bowel movement the next day. Regular for me means using the restroom once a day.
Lately, something has changed, and it is worrying me greatly. While I eat meals during the week that are high in fiber, and have regular bowel movements because of it, during the weekend, I eat outside of that diet. It is taking me longer than it used to, to have a bowel movement after eating a burger or some pizza.
Again, during my high fiber diets in the week, I am regular. But when I eat anything outside that diet, I am delayed. It NEVER used to be that way.
Yesterday, I ate some chicken tacos. This morning I felt like I needed to use the restroom, so I went. And it REALLY REALLY felt like something was coming out. But...it was gas. I sat there for 30 minutes with only gas coming out. This is very unusual for me. I usually have a good bowel movement after eating anything.
Note: I drink the recommended 8 glasses of water a day.
I just want to know why there is a sudden change in my bowel movements.
Lately, something has changed, and it is worrying me greatly. While I eat meals during the week that are high in fiber, and have regular bowel movements because of it, during the weekend, I eat outside of that diet. It is taking me longer than it used to, to have a bowel movement after eating a burger or some pizza.
Again, during my high fiber diets in the week, I am regular. But when I eat anything outside that diet, I am delayed. It NEVER used to be that way.
Yesterday, I ate some chicken tacos. This morning I felt like I needed to use the restroom, so I went. And it REALLY REALLY felt like something was coming out. But...it was gas. I sat there for 30 minutes with only gas coming out. This is very unusual for me. I usually have a good bowel movement after eating anything.
Note: I drink the recommended 8 glasses of water a day.
I just want to know why there is a sudden change in my bowel movements.
Brief Answer:
Because it is not a healthy diet!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for this query.
Of course, you have realised what it means when you eat junk food. I am sure your system had just been fortunate not to get constipated in the past but remember this is the tendency. Fibers gives bulk which facilitates transit. That is absent when you eat all refined food. I will advice that you stop or reduce consumption of unhealthy food. Constipation is the immediate visible consequence for now but over time, you are at risk of excess weight gain, vitamin deficiencies, high cholesterol, cancers, heart diseases, etc.
I greatly recommend that you avoid junk food. High fiber diet, regular exercise and much water would help but avoiding junk food is even more helpful.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Because it is not a healthy diet!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for this query.
Of course, you have realised what it means when you eat junk food. I am sure your system had just been fortunate not to get constipated in the past but remember this is the tendency. Fibers gives bulk which facilitates transit. That is absent when you eat all refined food. I will advice that you stop or reduce consumption of unhealthy food. Constipation is the immediate visible consequence for now but over time, you are at risk of excess weight gain, vitamin deficiencies, high cholesterol, cancers, heart diseases, etc.
I greatly recommend that you avoid junk food. High fiber diet, regular exercise and much water would help but avoiding junk food is even more helpful.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
