Food allergies and constipation are becoming increasingly common, especially for children. If these two conditions happen at the same time, you might wonder whether they’re connected. Although some research has explored a link between constipation and food allergies, no clear relationship has been established.

One study found that among children diagnosed with functional constipation (regular constipation that has no medical or physical cause), 15 percent were found to have food allergies. But constipation is also an ongoing problem for 3 percent to 16 percent of kids in general.

Additionally, 15 percent to 17 percent of adults have chronic constipation, but most food allergies don’t seem to increase the risk. Some studies suggest that sensitivity to peanuts and eggs may actually be linked to a slightly lower rate of constipation in adults.

Finding a link between two conditions doesn’t prove they directly affect each other. Lots of factors can lead to constipation, so it’s important to look at the bigger picture. Here’s some background on why people with food allergies may face chronic constipation and how to manage it.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation happens when someone is “backed up” or hasn’t had a bowel movement in a few days. For most people, having less than three bowel movements in one week is considered constipation. Even if you don’t fit this definition, you might still be constipated. Everyone is different.

Constipation can also mean you aren’t having bowel movements as frequently as usual. When left untreated, constipation leads to large, hard stools that cause pain and discomfort. People who are constipated may have abdominal pain, bloating, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The longer the problem lasts, the more difficult it becomes to pass stool.

Possible Causes of Constipation

Constipation can be triggered by many factors, ranging from diet to stress. Here are some common causes of constipation.

Diet

If you’re constipated, you’ll want to consider what you’re eating and drinking. Not drinking enough fluids or eating foods that don’t have fiber (like fast foods and desserts) can also cause constipation. Certain foods, such as dairy products and high-fat meats, are also known to cause constipation.

Lack of Exercise

Not getting enough physical activity can affect your bathroom habits. Regular exercise can help your digestion.

Disrupted Routine

Many people find themselves constipated on vacation. This can be due to eating different foods, but a change in your normal routine can also lead to constipation. For kids, starting a new school or camp could lead to bathroom difficulties.

Health Problems

Health problems can lead to constipation. Examples include problems with the nervous system or endocrine (hormone) system. Digestive system disorders can also cause constipation.

Medication Side Effects

Constipation can be a side effect of some medications and supplements, including:

• Antidepressants
• Iron supplements
• Pain medication

Constipation in Children

Young children and toddlers may become constipated for emotional reasons, such as stress or fear of using public bathrooms. Sometimes, toddlers avoid bowel movements out of fear or power struggles with parents who want them to use the toilet. Older kids may hold it in if they’re distracted by school, play, or activities.

Food Allergies Linked to Constipation

Certain food allergies may be more likely to cause constipation than others. For example, cow’s milk allergies can slow down digestion, especially in the lower intestines, making it harder to pass stool. Between 1 percent and 5 percent of children have a cow’s milk protein allergy. Between 32 percent and 60 percent of these kids also experience digestive problems.

In babies, symptoms of a cow’s milk allergy may start as colic or acid reflux and later turn into constipation by the time they are in school. About 20 percent of kids with constipation from a cow’s milk allergy are also allergic to other foods.

Restrictive Diets

Allergic reactions can be traumatic, especially if you’ve experienced life-threatening anaphylaxis. People with severe or multiple food allergies may end up eating a pretty limited diet. Although strict diets can be necessary for people with food allergies, they can also lead to a fear of food. This fear may continue even if the person has outgrown the allergy.

Not eating enough, or limiting high-fiber foods, can put you at risk for constipation. If you’re allergic to a food group that’s also a major source of fiber, you might not be getting what you need. For instance, wheat allergies require people to avoid wheat, including whole wheat. If they aren’t careful to get enough fiber from other foods, they could miss out on this essential nutrient for healthy digestion.

You can work on improving your relationship with food at any age. Mental health professionals and registered dietitian nutritionists can provide support for those struggling with food-related issues or anxiety.

Acid Reflux and Constipation

Some adult members of MyFoodAllergyTeam have food allergies that cause acid reflux (heartburn). The medication they take to treat reflux causes constipation as a side effect.

One member of MyFoodAllergyTeam shared, “I get high amounts of acid, which causes irritation and discomfort. If I continue eating the wrong foods, I get stomach ulcers, which are hard to get rid of. The treatment is not cool, as it causes constipation for an already slow-moving gastrointestinal system.”

Switching to a different type of heartburn treatment, such as one that contains magnesium, may help with constipation.

Studies show that food allergies can also cause reflux or colic in infants. These symptoms are linked to chronic constipation, especially for kids with milk allergies. Unfortunately, laxatives don’t always work in these cases.

How To Manage Constipation

If you or your child has ongoing constipation, there are steps you can take to help prevent it. Here are some general tips:

• Get daily exercise
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Eat fiber-rich foods like beans, fruits, whole grains, and vegetables

Prunes are especially helpful for preventing constipation because they’re high in fiber and other nutrients, which help make stools easier to pass. When you have constipation, it’s also important to avoid holding it in if you feel the need to use the bathroom. Try to give yourself some time to have a bowel movement within an hour of eating a meal.

Sometimes, people need a little extra help to overcome constipation. Talk to a health care provider about your concerns. There are several over-the-counter treatments for constipation, including those that stimulate the intestines, soften the stool, or lubricate the colon. Some are taken by mouth, while others are inserted directly into the rectum as a suppository.

Constipation treatment can be helpful, but it’s always better to avoid the problem in the first place. Most constipation treatments aren’t meant for long-term use. Instead, it’s important to focus on developing a healthy routine that supports regular bathroom habits.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyFoodAllergyTeam is the social network for people with food allergies and their loved ones. More than 41,000 members from around the world come together to ask questions, offer support and advice, and connect with others who understand life with food allergies.

Does avoiding food allergens make it harder to get enough fiber in your diet? What types of foods have you found helpful for managing constipation? Share in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.