Why do you go on a diet to lose weight, don't defecate, only fart

Not defecating and only farting during dieting and weight loss may be related to factors such as changes in dietary structure, slowed gastrointestinal motility, and imbalanced gut microbiota. An increase in flatulence usually indicates an increase in intestinal gas production, but a decrease in bowel movements should alert one to the risk of constipation.

1. Insufficient dietary fiber intake

Excessive dieting can easily lead to insufficient intake of vegetables and fruits, while a lack of dietary fiber can reduce the volume and increase the hardness of feces. Dietary fiber can absorb water, expand and stimulate intestinal wall peristalsis. It is recommended to consume 300-500 grams of vegetables and 200-350 grams of fruits daily, and prioritize foods rich in soluble dietary fiber such as broccoli and oats.

2. Insufficient water supplementation

When liquid intake is insufficient, the colon will excessively absorb water, resulting in dry stools that are difficult to excrete. During the weight loss period, the daily water intake should reach 1500-1700 milliliters, and warm water can be consumed in small amounts to avoid excessive drinking at once, which increases the burden on the kidneys.

3. Disruption of gut microbiota

Sudden reduction in food intake can disrupt the balance of gut probiotics, leading to excessive proliferation of gas producing bacteria and bloating and exhaust. Moderate supplementation of yogurt or probiotic preparations containing bifidobacteria is recommended, but it is important to choose sugar free and low-fat products.

4. Weakened gastrointestinal motility

Long term low calorie diet can reduce the frequency of gastrointestinal peristalsis and prolong the retention time of food residues in the intestine. Taking a light walk or massaging the abdomen clockwise for 30 minutes after a meal can help promote intestinal peristalsis.

5. Abnormal neural regulation

Excessive dieting may affect autonomic nervous function through the brain gut axis, leading to weakened defecation reflex. This situation may be accompanied by anxiety, and it is necessary to adjust the weight loss rate and ensure 6-8 hours of sleep per day.

It is recommended to adopt a gradual approach to adjusting diet and avoid extreme dieting. Maintain moderate daily exercise such as brisk walking, yoga, etc., and develop a habit of regular bowel movements. If there is no bowel movement or symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloody stools for more than 3 days, seek medical attention promptly to check for organic diseases. Long term constipation patients can follow the doctor's advice to use laxatives such as lactulose oral solution and wheat cellulose granules, but should avoid relying on stimulant laxatives.