Dealing with Constipation in Parkinson’s: Practical Tips and Dietary Help

Constipation might not be the most talked-about symptom of Parkinson’s disease, but it is one of the most common — and frustrating. In fact, for many people, it can show up years before diagnosis and stick around throughout the disease journey.

At The Center for Movement Challenges, we know how much digestive symptoms like constipation can affect energy, mobility, and overall quality of life. The good news is that with the right strategies, you can improve bowel health and feel more in control.

Let’s break down why Parkinson’s and constipation go hand in hand and what you can do to manage it effectively.

Why Does Parkinson’s Cause Constipation?

Constipation in Parkinson’s is usually caused by a combination of neurological and lifestyle factors. The same way Parkinson’s affects movement in the arms and legs, it can also slow down movement in the digestive system.

Key causes include:

• Slowed gut motility due to loss of dopamine in the digestive tract
• Medication side effects, especially from anticholinergics or iron supplements
• Low fluid intake or dehydration
• Inactivity, which can reduce intestinal movement
• Poor diet (low in fiber and plant-based foods)

Some people also experience pelvic floor dysfunction, making it harder to fully empty the bowels even when the urge is present.

Signs of Constipation in Parkinson’s

Everyone’s “normal” is different, but here are common signs that constipation may be an issue:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Hard or lumpy stools
• Straining to pass stool
• A sense of incomplete evacuation
• Bloating, cramping, or abdominal discomfort
• Feeling full even when eating less

Constipation is more than just a bathroom problem — it can increase your fall risk, worsen fatigue, and interfere with Parkinson’s medication absorption.

Practical Tips for Managing Constipation in Parkinson’s

Fortunately, constipation is treatable in most cases with the right combination of diet, movement, hydration, and routine.

Here are proven, practical steps you can take starting today.

1. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration makes stool harder and more difficult to pass. Aim for:

• 6 to 8 glasses of water per day
• Warm fluids (like herbal tea) to stimulate digestion in the morning
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate

💡 Tip: Sip water throughout the day instead of chugging large amounts at once.

2. Increase Fiber Intake — Gradually

Fiber helps bulk and soften stool, making it easier to pass. Go for 25–30 grams of fiber per day, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

High-fiber foods include:

• Fruits like apples, pears, berries, and prunes
• Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens
• Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and quinoa
• Legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas

Introduce fiber slowly to avoid gas or bloating, and always pair it with water.

3. Build a Bathroom Routine

Your digestive system thrives on routine. Try:

• Going to the bathroom at the same time each day, especially after breakfast
• Creating a relaxed, unhurried environment in the bathroom
• Using a footstool to raise your knees and support natural positioning

Consistency matters. Even sitting on the toilet for a few minutes daily can help train your system.

4. Move Your Body, Move Your Bowels

Exercise stimulates the muscles of your digestive tract. At The Center for Movement Challenges, we offer Parkinson’s-specific classes, both in-person and online, that include:

• Seated and standing core movements
• Trunk rotations and stretches
• Gentle walking routines
• PWR! Moves to activate the whole body

Just 20 to 30 minutes of daily movement can make a big difference in constipation symptoms.

5. Review Your Medications

Some Parkinson’s medications or other prescriptions may contribute to constipation. Talk to your neurologist or pharmacist about:

• Adjusting dosages
• Adding stool softeners or fiber supplements
• Avoiding medications that slow the gut unnecessarily

Never change medications on your own. Work with your medical team to make safe, informed changes.

6. Try Natural Laxatives When Needed

For occasional relief, consider:

• Prune juice or dried prunes
• Ground flaxseed (add to smoothies or oatmeal)
• Psyllium husk (a natural fiber supplement)

Use natural options with caution and monitor how your body responds. If over-the-counter laxatives are needed more than occasionally, speak with your doctor.

When to Call Your Doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Sudden or severe constipation
• No bowel movement for several days
• Rectal bleeding
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss

These could be signs of an obstruction or other medical issue requiring prompt care.

The Role of The Center for Movement Challenges

Constipation in Parkinson’s isn’t just a digestive issue — it affects how you move, how you feel, and even how well your medications work. That’s why we include digestive health education and movement strategies in our Parkinson’s programs.

Our services include:

• In-person exercise therapy for movement and gut activation
• Online Parkinson’s classes designed to support posture, movement, and digestion
• Customized recommendations for building daily routines that support bowel regularity

We approach constipation from the ground up — literally — with practical, movement-focused support.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Accept Constipation as “Normal”

Constipation is common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it. By making simple changes to your hydration, diet, activity, and habits, you can restore digestive comfort and improve your quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

• Constipation in Parkinson’s is caused by slowed digestion, medication, and inactivity
• Hydration, fiber, movement, and routine are your first line of defense
• Exercise, especially Parkinson’s-specific classes, can improve gut function
• The Center for Movement Challenges offers tools, classes, and support to help manage these symptoms naturally and effectively

Let’s Get Things Moving

Ready to take control of your digestive health? Join one of our online Parkinson’s classes or schedule an in-person session at The Center for Movement Challenges.

Visit www.centerformovementchallenges.org to get started.
Movement helps everything — including your gut.

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