Constipation refers only to bowel movements that are hard in consistency or painful to eliminate.   Medication can induce constipation such as supplemental iron, aluminum hydroxide antacids, narcotics, and antihypertensive agents. Other contributing factors include prolonged immobilization (bedrest), little exercise, inadequate intake of fiber and fluids, irregular eating habits, and possibly stress. Other circumstances that predispose to constipation include diabetes, hypothyroidism, colon cancer, and conditions that cause pain on defecation, such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Try the suggestions below for preventing or treating constipation. 

• Increase your intake of high fiber foods such as unrefined grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
• Softer high fiber foods include bran muffins, applesauce, legumes, barley, cooked whole grain cereal with bran added, cooked prunes, and prune juice.
• Drink plenty of fluids (8-10 glasses per day for adults).
• Recommend several cups of warm-to-hot liquid in the morning to distend the stomach and stimulate the bowels.
• Exercise daily such as a half-hour walk (try walking after meals).
• Eat small meals and chew foods well.
• Eat food slowly.