It is a common symptom during oncological treatment and the most frequent causes are changes in diet (reduced intake of liquids and/or foods rich in fiber), decreased or lack of physical exercise, and the administration of certain drugs specific to the treatment. All of this can slow down bowel movements, which makes the stool less water-absorbing and dry and hard. Evacuation will be difficult and may lead to pain and discomfort.
WHAT DO WE RECOMMEND?
Such as quince, banana, white rice, toasted bread, baked apple, or compote.
Walk every day for at least 20 to 30 minutes. If this is not possible, mobilise the gut by doing small clockwise rotating massages on the abdomen.
Except for cases where treatment has been accompanied by weight gain.
Increase consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables (preferably raw), pulses, whole grains and cereals, mushrooms, and nuts. If you prepare soups, purées, juices, or smoothies, do not strain the preparations to not eliminate fibre.
| Examples of food preparations to incorporate more fibre in meals |
Dishes made with whole grains or pulses, with vegetables, dried fruit, or nuts:
With stews:
With omelettes/scrambled eggs:
With vegetables and mushrooms:
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| Foods to snack on |
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Sit on the toilet every day, if possible, at the same time, even if you do not have a bowel movement at first.
If there is no nausea, add a tablespoon of virgin olive oil to a glass of lukewarm water, followed by a piece of fruit, such as a kiwi or an orange.
- Drink around two litres of water between meals throughout the day.
- Drink mainly water-based liquids, but you can also combine herbal teas, vegetable broths, natural fruit, and vegetable juices with their pulp (plum, orange, pineapple, tomato…).
- Avoid black tea or other astringent teas, rice, or carrot drinks.