Why Do I Have Constipation?

Let’s talk about something most of us experience, but few of us feel comfortable discussing: constipation. That sluggish, backed-up, bloated feeling isn’t just frustrating, it’s your body asking for help.

Constipation is incredibly common, especially among women (particularly during pregnancy), children, and the elderly. But even though it's normal, it should never be ignored. When your body can't eliminate waste effectively, toxins that should be leaving your system can build up, recirculate, and quietly affect everything from your mood and energy to your skin and hormones.

So let’s explore what might be holding things up and what you can do about it.

 What Is Constipation, Really?

It can look a little different for everyone. But generally, if you’re having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, or straining to pass hard, dry stool, that’s constipation. Some women go once a day, others two or three times. But regularity (not frequency) is the key.

Your colon is your internal cleaner. If things aren’t moving, waste sits longer than it should, and your body may start to reabsorb toxins it’s trying to eliminate. That can impact your immunity, digestion, skin, and even your lymphatic system.

 What’s Actually Happening in Your Body?

Digestion is a delicate dance between enzymes, friendly bacteria, bile, and muscle contractions (called peristalsis). When things flow well, food is broken down, nutrients are absorbed, and waste is removed smoothly within 18–24 hours.

But when your colon absorbs too much water—or muscle contractions slow down—stool becomes hard, dry, and difficult to pass. If it sits too long, it begins to ferment and putrefy, producing gases, toxins, and unfriendly bacteria. That can affect your gut microbiome and trigger inflammation or immune stress.

 Common Causes of Constipation in Women

While occasional constipation is normal, long-term or frequent issues may point to deeper imbalances. Here are the most common causes:

•  Gut imbalances (like IBS, Candida, or leaky gut)

•  Food intolerances or allergies

•  Medication (especially antibiotics)

•  Travel or routine changes

•  Lack of movement or exercise

•  Stress (which disrupts enzyme production)

•  Dehydration

•  Low-fibre, highly processed diets

•  Pregnancy

•  Age-related enzyme depletion

At LoveSelf, we always say: your digestion reflects your lifestyle. Constipation is often your body's gentle nudge that something needs your attention.

 Natural Ways to Restore Your Flow

The good news? Constipation is often preventable and reversible with a few smart lifestyle shifts.

Here’s how to support healthy, regular digestion naturally:

 Eat close to nature

Focus on whole, unprocessed, organic foods, especially seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in fibre, enzymes, and hydration.

 Feed your gut

Include more fermented, probiotic-rich foods like sauerkraut, kefir, miso, and tempeh to support friendly gut flora.

 Consider digestive support

High-quality probiotics, digestive enzymes, and gentle fibre supplements can help reset your rhythm, especially during periods of imbalance or recovery.

 Boost your fibre—gently

Soluble fibre (from oats, psyllium, seaweed, legumes) helps bind toxins and soften stools.
Insoluble fibre (from whole grains, fruit skins, vegetables) adds bulk and gets things moving.

Increase gradually to avoid bloating or gas and always pair with enough water.

 Stay hydrated

Aim for 6–8 glasses of filtered water a day, more if you're increasing fibre. Dehydration is one of the fastest ways to slow things down.

 Move your body

Even light daily exercise stimulates your digestive tract and encourages peristalsis. Walks, yoga, and stretching work wonders.

 Give your system a seasonal reset

Colon cleansing (like gentle herbal formulas or at-home enemas) has been used in natural health for centuries. It’s a simple way to clear accumulated waste and support detoxification, especially if you’ve been feeling sluggish or off.

 Final Thoughts

Constipation isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a sign. Your body is talking, and it’s asking for support.

By tuning in, cleaning up your diet, and prioritising gut health, you can restore natural rhythm and feel lighter, clearer, and more you again.

At LoveSelf, we believe your digestion is the foundation of your wellbeing. Let’s treat it like the sacred system it is.