Constipation can be a symptom of a corn allergy

Constipation can be a symptom of a corn allergy

Most people don't like to talk about constipation, even though many struggle with it almost every day. It seems that large or hard stools can be behind things like advertising toilets that can flush 29 golf balls at once. To relieve this painful and difficult condition, many turn to laxatives. While laxatives may work short-term, they are not recommended for long-term use. Additionally, chronic constipation can cause all sorts of other problems for your body. It's important to get to the root of the problem instead of relying on harsh medications.

Lifestyle changes such as eating more fruit like apples, walking more, or exercising more can help relieve constipation. Adding other foods like yogurt to your daily routine can also be a way to improve overall digestive health. If you've tried all of these things but still have chronic constipation, your problem could actually be an undiagnosed food allergy like a corn allergy.

Not everyone who is allergic to food has constipation as a symptom, but some do. I have received many emails from people who are allergic to corn and suffered from severe constipation until they recognized the problem and eliminated corn. Unfortunately, most people eat corn or a corn derivative with every meal, so it's hard to know what the true cause of constipation really is.

Infants who are allergic to corn may be particularly susceptible to constipation, especially if the baby is formula-fed. Most formulas are made with corn syrup solids or other corn derivatives, which can cause constipation or abdominal pain, gas, and bloating in the baby. New parents often don't understand that formula is the cause of their baby's tummy pain and continue to feed their baby formula, only to learn the cause of their baby's distress much later.

In addition to constipation problems, some people are so sensitive to corn that using toilet paper that contains cornstarch can cause problems. Some get a sore bottom, others get hives or sores. Wipes may also contain corn. If someone is that sensitive to corn, they will need to use water or a cloth or both to clean themselves. In addition, diapers or feminine products can cause similar reactions. Calling companies individually is the best way to check whether products contain corn or not. Unfortunately, many have found it necessary to call companies multiple times and tread carefully when trying something new. Often the people who answer the phone don't have enough information to answer questions properly. So if you have a severe allergy, you need to be extremely careful.

Inspired by Lilly Verden