Constipation Remedies?

Hi All, My surgery was 3/8 and I'm down 61 pounds and doing really well except for one thing. Constipation problems. I try every day to get my water in and some days I do better with that than others. I know tha****er and fiber are important, but does anyone have any specific remedies that might help me out as well. I see my doc on 7/28 and should get the ok then to eat just about everything. I'm wondering if that is part of the problem too.......I need more variety of foods? Thanks!!

I eat sugar-free candy with malitol in it, it has a laxative effect. I've noticed that SF Jelly Belly jelly beans are the most potent, eat a small handful and you'll be going to the bathroom in no time! (well, some people aren't sensitive to sugar alcohols, but I sure am!!) It's worth a shot, and much more pleasant than an enema, hehe! I keep a bowl around and eat a few here and there to help keep me regular. I had some major problems w/constipation right after my GB surgery, the only thing that helped then was milk of magnesia. But on a regular basis, I use the SF candy, it's a nice treat and helps a lot.

Thanks Michelle! I just might try some of the candy with the malitol. I've never had a problem with it having a laxative effect on me before, but who knows, it might now. I also talked to the nurse at the doc's office. I may not be getting enough fiber either. I've been afraid to eat some things, but over the last 2 weeks I have been trying more things. Thanks again!

I went for my 3 month appt yesterday and I had concerns about constipation..I was told to try 1/4 cup of prune juice at night and milk of magnesia (sp?) in the morning. I am not sure if it works yet, since I havent been out to get these products yet but if anyone would like to comment on this if they have tried it....let me know! Nancy

Hi Nancy, I did finally talk to the nurse this morning. She told me to try prune juice and make sure I have some cereal every day -- in other words....get more fiber and of course drink enough liquids. I almost forgot when I replied to Michelle, but she told me that I could take a stool softener too so I'll try that. Hopefully some others will have some suggestions.

I was having the same problem. I'm happy to say i'm down 67 lbs as of today!! (doing a happy dance ) try Benefiber. IN the morning I have one of Susan Maria's shakes with some strawberries or blueberries.. Its a delicious and NUTRITIOUS smoothie. I use soy milk instead of water.. My protein shake packs 25 grams! I also put a tablespoon of Benefiber in it.. It does the trick. Viv

Thanks Viv!

I had the same problem and my doc said 4 oz of no-sugar added Apple Juice a day. It works, trust me...and it counts as 4oz of your fluids and you wont need to add another supplement to your regimen... It may take a couple of days of drinking the juice before you see daily results, but i find it is more mild than taking any kind of laxitive and tastes better than any kind of fiber mixture...

Hi! I take 2-3 tablespoons of Flax Seed every morning and am very regular now. Plus it's great with the Omega vits! Peggy 3/17/05 301/240

Variety is KEY!! Yes, have more variety. Shake things up a bit. As for constipation - Milk of Magnesia wild cherry flavor works for me. One shot glass of that stuff and a few hours later your bowels are moving more than you'd like it too! LOL