Eating Disorders & Not Pooping
Published: January 14, 2021 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30
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The question
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Whatâs the longest someone with an eating disorder has gone without pooping
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The answer
Eating disorders and constipation (not being able to poop) often go hand in hand. When a person has an eating disorder, their bodies are not getting the nutrients it needs to have “normal” bowel movement (poop). Someone is considered constipated if they have fewer than three bowel movements a week. Chronic constipation can persist for several weeks or longer.
[Mayo Clinic explains that everyone is different and goes to the bathroom on different schedules and there are numerous causes for constipation. If this is an issue you are having, we recommend telling a parent or trusted adult. It might be time to see your doctor to avoid long term damage or medical issues.
If you or someone you know needs help finding a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the [Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist.