State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Prep for Exam Success!

Adequate fluid intake is crucial for preventing constipation, especially in inactive individuals. When a person is less active, their bowel motility tends to slow down, making it more difficult for the digestive system to process and move waste through the intestines. Proper hydration plays a vital role in softening the stool, which makes it easier to pass.

When the body is well-hydrated, it helps to maintain the moisture content of the intestines and can stimulate digestive activity. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to hard, dry stools that are difficult to eliminate, further exacerbating the issue of constipation.

While regular mealtimes can promote a routine in bowel habits, they do not have the same direct impact on stool consistency as adequate fluid intake. A high protein or low fiber diet may not contribute effectively to preventing constipation; in fact, high protein diets can sometimes worsen constipation if not balanced with enough fiber and fluids.