To avoid getting constipated:
- Eat plenty of fiber. Good sources are fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole-grain bread and cereal. Eat bran cereal or add bran to other foods.
- Drink 1½ to 2 quarts of water and other fluids a day. (Note: Milk can cause constipation in some people.) Liquids with caffeine, such as coffee and soft drinks, can dehydrate you and may need to be avoided.
- Exercise regularly.
- Move your bowels when you feel the urge.