Constipation Is the New Office Epidemic - And Your AC Might Be to Blame

If you feel bloated or sluggish at work, are you blaming it on the protein shake you had for lunch? Even though it can be a partial reason for your chronic constipation, you will be surprised to know the even

bigger culprit could be the cold, dry air of your office’s air conditioning, not your diet. While protein shakes and high-protein diets are often pointed to as the cause of digestive issues, a more subtle and insidious factor has begun to play a major role in the rise of constipation today: the air-conditioned office environment. These spaces are typically dry, with low humidity, and often go unnoticed as a factor in our health.

How does air-conditioned air cause constipation?

"The dry air is silently dehydrating you, even though you might not feel thirsty. This dehydration slows down your digestive system and, over time, leads to the uncomfortable, often ignored issue of constipation,” Dr Nutan Desai, Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital, told Times Now. Dr Desai says while in the office, you may easily forget to hydrate. “The cold air makes us feel like we’re not thirsty, even though our bodies are in need of water. Dehydration is one of the leading causes of constipation because when the body doesn’t have enough water, the colon absorbs more water from the stool, causing it to harden and become difficult to pass,” she added. It is a slow process that often goes unnoticed until you start feeling sluggish, bloated, or uncomfortable. On top of dehydration, sitting for long hours without much movement can also slow down digestion. “Most of us spend a large portion of our day at a desk, which means our digestive system isn’t getting the natural rhythm and movement it needs. When there’s not enough movement to your body, your digestion slows down, and then if you’re also dehydrated, it can lead to constipation,” said Dr Desai.

How to fix constipation while at work?

While it may sound like a normal or a negligible issue, it can affect your health, work, and overall life. Fixing this is not difficult at all; you just need a few minor changes in routine. “Start with keeping a water bottle at your desk and keep sipping at regular intervals throughout the day. Try to take breaks, stand up, stretch, or take short walks around the office, as, along with hydration, your body needs movement,” said Dr Desai. These small, basic changes in habits can go a long way in preventing constipation and improving your overall health. If you are one of those who do not feel thirsty - staying hydrated requires relying on water-rich foods and beverages like fruits - watermelon, oranges, cucumbers, vegetables - celery, leafy greens, bell peppers, soups, broths, yogurt, and cottage cheese, along with hydrating options like herbal teas, coconut water, smoothies using fruits and greens, and warm water with honey and ginger. Incorporating hydrating snacks like chilled grapes, citrus slices, cucumbers with hummus, and watermelon helps maintain fluid intake, while adding extra water to meals, such as oatmeal, porridge, or grain dishes, further boosts hydration. Electrolyte-rich drinks, diluted fruit juices, and ORS can support fluid balance, especially in fatigue. Fluids like caffeine, alcohol, carbonated water, and high-salt foods should be limited as they provoke dehydration. Establishing simple routines or reminders to sip water regularly ensures adequate hydration even without the natural urge to drink.