16 Constipation Being constipated means difficulty having bowel movements or fewer bowel movements a week than normal. What to do • Ask your cancer care team to help you set up a daily bowel care plan. They might suggest over-the-counter products such as stool softeners or fiber supplements. • Try to eat at the same times each day. If possible, try to have a bowel movement at the same time each day. • Drink more fluids, unless instructed otherwise by your cancer care team. • If it’s OK with your cancer care team, eat more high-fiber foods every day, such as whole-grain breads and cereals; fresh raw fruits with skins; fresh raw vegetables; fruit juices; and dates, apricots, raisins, prunes, prune juice, and nuts. • Avoid foods and drinks that cause gas, such as apples, avocados, beans and peas, cabbage, broccoli, milk, and fizzy drinks, until the constipation is gone. • Avoid chewing gum and using straws to drink. Using them can cause gas. • Avoid or cut back on any foods that may cause constipation, such as cheese or eggs. • Always ask your cancer care team before using stool softeners or laxatives. Don’t use enemas or suppositories, unless directed to do so. • Try to move around and be as physically active as you can. D C m c a W
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