A surprising new national health report has identified a rather uncomfortable issue plaguing the nation's capital, revealing Canberra as Australia's most constipated jurisdiction.
The Uncomfortable Findings of a National Survey
The latest Movicol Constipation State of the Nation report, based on a survey of 2055 Australian adults, has delivered some startling results. The data, commissioned by the company that sells the Movicol stool hydrator product, ranked the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) as the country's most constipated region.
Twenty per cent of the ACT's population reported experiencing difficulty with bowel movements. Tasmania followed closely behind, with 18 per cent of residents afflicted. The Northern Territory recorded the lowest incidence of constipation nationally.
The broader national picture is also concerning. The report indicates a staggering 86 per cent of the Australian population experienced difficult bowel movements at some point in the past year.
Breaking the 'Stool Stigma'
The report highlights a significant social barrier dubbed "stool stigma"—a widespread reluctance to discuss basic bodily functions. This silence persists despite clear impacts on mental and physical wellbeing.
Sixty per cent of respondents said a satisfying bowel movement contributed positively to their mental wellbeing. Conversely, troublesome movements led to feelings of frustration and annoyance.
The consequences can be severe. One in three people felt compromised and not at their best when constipated, while a concerning one in five reported that constipation had ruined a holiday.
Causes, Culprits, and Cures
The primary drivers of constipation are well-known but often ignored: a lack of dietary fibre, dehydration, insufficient physical activity, and ignoring the urge to go. Diets high in dairy—rich in fat and calcium but low in fibre—are another common culprit, as can be certain medications.
Changes in routine, particularly travel, are a major trigger for what the article wryly terms "rectal reluctance". The state of public facilities also plays a critical role, with horrific toilet experiences cited as a deterrent that can affect people for days.
Combating the issue involves straightforward lifestyle adjustments: drinking plenty of water, eating high-fibre vegetables like broccoli, moderating dairy intake, and maintaining regular physical activity.
The author of the original piece, John Hanscombe, notes his own routine—aided by a border collie's demand for daily walks—keeps him regular. He promises to watch for the next report to see if there's been any "movement at the station" and whether Canberra's other, less-discussed bubble has finally burst.
