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Pharmacy Links

DO STARCHY FOODS CAUSE CONSTIPATION? (INTRODUCTION)

April 7, 2009

Many people suffering from constipation claim that a diet high in carbohydrates makes their condition worse or perhaps even causes it. Looking at this argument closely, we are inclined to agree, for in such cases the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to break down starch. Hence it is indeed true that starchy foods can lead to constipation. Potato starch is particularly binding, so that it would be advisable to restrict one’s intake of potatoes or forgo them entirely until the pancreas is back to normal. Too many patients make the mistake of not finding out which foods are known to cause problems, in order to avoid them until a complete cure is achieved. They have the mistaken belief that there must be some kind of miracle cure that will do the job without any sacrifice on their part. But would it not be wiser to avoid all foods that could trigger the disorder instead of waiting until we have the problem and then depending on a remedy to overcome it? Abstinence from such foods is often the only action required to rectify the condition.