Is the folic acid I am taking causing constipation?
No, folic acid does not cause constipation. In fact, a diet with lots of folate, the natural form of folic acid, can help prevent constipation. This is because foods that are high in folate—leafy greens, fortified cereals, etc.—are usually also high in fiber.
Fiber helps move food through your digestive system. If food moves too slowly through your body, you become constipated. Constipation is one of the common side effects of pregnancy, because pregnant women tend to have slow digestion.
You can do a lot to prevent or reduce constipation:
- Eat a high-fiber diet. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Check the nutrition labels on food to see which products are high in fiber. If your diet has been very low in fiber, add a little at a time so your body gets used to it.
- Drink plenty of water. This is especially true for pregnant women. Pregnancy uses up a lot of your body's water, so you need to drink lots of fluids throughout the day. The recommended amount of water for pregnant women is 10 cups per day.
- Exercise. Exercise gets your blood flowing and keeps your digestive system working properly.
- Obey your body. If you feel the need to use the restroom, do so.
- Be careful with laxatives. Fiber supplements are helpful for dealing with constipation. But don't take anything else without talking to your health care provider first.
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