Elderly people suffer from chronic constipation? It turns out that calcium supplementation is to blame

As we age, the rate of calcium loss in the human body increases. Calcium deficiency can cause osteoporosis and make fractures more likely to occur.

Modern people have a stronger awareness of health care, and many people will take calcium tablets to prevent osteoporosis when they get older. Some elderly people will experience constipation after taking calcium supplements.

1. Why does calcium supplementation cause constipation?

Calcium carbonate is usually the first choice for calcium supplementation because it has a high calcium content and is cheap. After calcium enters the intestines, it will inhibit intestinal motility, causing feces to stay in the intestines for a longer time. The water in it is over-absorbed, making the stool dry and hard. In addition, the gastrointestinal motility of the elderly is slow, which can cause difficulty in defecation.

2. How to prevent constipation when supplementing calcium?

Reasonable dosage

The recommended calcium intake for people over 65 years old in China's Dietary Guidelines is 1,000 mg per day, and daily calcium supplementation should not be excessive.

Proper exercise

Exercise can improve gastrointestinal function, increase bowel movement, and help improve osteoporosis.

Good eating habits

Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and other foods rich in fiber, and drink 2000 ml of water every day.

Regular bowel movements

Develop the habit of regular bowel movements to reduce the occurrence of constipation.

Take medication as directed by your doctor

If constipation occurs, first adjust your diet and drink more water. If the condition does not improve, take medication under the guidance of a doctor.