According to DiabetesLibrary.org, approximately one out of every four diabetics experience diabetic constipation frequently. Constipation is hard to standardize because everyone is different in this regard. However, most doctors agree that a person is considered constipated if they have a bowel movement less than three times a week and pass hard stools.
Most people have a bout with bowel movements time and again. Diabetic constipation is usually due to diet, lack of exercise, stress, and not drinking a sufficient amount of liquids. Yet, some cases of diabetic constipation are chronic, having been caused by medications or digestive disorders which are linked to hypothyroidism, cancer, or diabetes, and other serious medical issues.
The problem affects both type 1 and type 2 diabetics and is more prevalent among diabetics with neuropathy (nerve damage). Research has shown that when blood sugar levels rise the intestinal nerves cannot function properly. These nerves control the period of time in which the stool stays in the colon. When they become ineffective, the stool sits in the intestinal tract too long, causing diabetic constipation.
Recommendations for Diabetic Constipation
If you are having problems with diabetic constipation, you may have an easier time with it by changing your lunch menu. Eating foods that are low in sugar and high in fiber may be your solution. LiveStrong.com, recommends the following lunch foods to help you regain your balance:
Bran Cereal – Eating this with fruit and soy or almond milk is both nutritious and delicious. It will also help you overcome diabetic constipation because bran has a high concentration of insoluble fiber. Fruits are also high in fiber and high in antioxidants which can remove harmful chemicals and toxins.
Vegetable Chili – A salad with leafy green vegetables, green beans, and vegetable chili can make a great lunch. Beans and vegetables both contain fiber to help with diabetic constipation and can help with your blood sugar levels as well.
Fruits, Nuts, and Seeds – A bowel of mixed fruits, nuts and seeds make a great lunch. They are also helpful in providing fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars.
Whole Wheat Spaghetti – Whole wheat spaghetti is a food which is high in insoluble fiber and low in glycemic content, making it a perfect solution for diabetic constipation. It will also help you to control your blood sugar levels. LiveStrong.com recommends completing it with a salad full over vegetables like spinach, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers because they are high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.
