Constipation: What your gut is trying to tell you.

Constipation is often brushed off as something minor—but it’s actually one of the clearest signals your gut is asking for support.

While it’s common, it’s not normal to go days without a bowel movement, strain regularly, or feel like you’re not fully emptying.

Constipation can be influenced by several underlying factors:

• Low fibre intake (or the wrong types of fibre for your gut)

• Inadequate hydration

• Sluggish bile flow

• Imbalances in the gut microbiome

• Chronic stress impacting gut motility

• Thyroid dysfunction

Signs & Symptoms

• Fewer than one bowel movement per day

• Straining or difficulty passing stools

• Hard, dry stools

• Feeling incomplete after going

• Bloating or abdominal discomfort

Your gut relies on a delicate balance of bacteria, hydration, nervous system input and proper digestion to keep things moving. When one (or more) of these is off, constipation can follow.

Over time, this can impact detoxification, hormone balance, skin health and overall inflammation in the body.

Common Mistakes

• Increasing fibre too quickly (or using the wrong types)

• Not drinking enough water alongside fibre

• Ignoring the urge to go

• Relying on coffee or laxatives long-term

• Skipping meals (which reduces gut motility)

The goal isn’t just to “go more” — it’s to understand why your body is slowing down.

How to Support It

Nutrition:

• Aim for a mix of soluble + insoluble fibre (kiwi, oats, flaxseeds, vegetables)

• Include healthy fats to stimulate bile flow (extra virgin olive oil, avocado)

• Prioritise regular meals to support gut rhythm

Lifestyle:

• Hydration: minimum ~1.5–2L daily

• Gentle movement (walking supports motility)

• Nervous system support (your gut needs to feel “safe” to function properly)

If this is something you’re experiencing, addressing the root cause can make a significant difference. You can book a consultation via the ‘Book a consultation’ button.