Constipation and High Cholesterol: Is There a Link?
Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Teplitsky, MD Last reviewed 2026-10-15
What the sources say about bowel changes, cholesterol medicines, and thyroid function.
High cholesterol is not listed as a direct cause of constipation. The links named in the MedlinePlus pages cited here are bile acid sequestrants and hypothyroidism. Learn what medical guidance says about managing constipation while treating high cholesterol.
High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms per NHS guidance, so it is not listed as a direct cause of constipation. A blood test is the only way to find out if you have elevated lipids. Bile acid sequestrants list constipation as their most common adverse effect, while hypothyroidism represents another shared factor that contributes to high cholesterol and constipation.
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The NHS says high cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms, so constipation is not listed as one. The NHS: high cholesterol guidance states clearly that high cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. A blood test is the only way to find out if you have it.
Experiencing both conditions at the same time can result from simple coincidence or dietary habits. In other instances, the overlap can come from a prescribed medication or an underlying condition. For detailed strategies on managing blood lipids, visit our guide on how to lower cholesterol.
Cholesterol Medicines and Constipation
Bile acid sequestrants, a class of cholesterol-lowering medicine, can cause constipation. Information from MedlinePlus: cholesterol-lowering medicines identifies constipation as the most common side effect of bile acid sequestrants. That resource also lists heartburn, gas and bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and muscle aches and pains as other possible side effects of these medicines.
Patients taking bile acid sequestrants should swallow the pills with plenty of water and take them with food unless directed otherwise. MedlinePlus advises patients to contact their healthcare provider if severe constipation develops. You should never stop taking a prescribed cholesterol medication on your own without talking with your provider first.
The MedlinePlus reference page does not mention constipation as a statin side effect and does not mention ezetimibe. That source notes that statins are thought to be the best medicines for people who need cholesterol-lowering drugs. MedlinePlus adds that a healthy lower-fat diet and regular exercise support the heart.
Hypothyroidism as a Shared Cause
Hypothyroidism is one condition that can contribute to high cholesterol and can also cause constipation. As documented in MedlinePlus: hypothyroidism, hypothyroidism can contribute to high cholesterol. That same medical resource identifies constipation as a possible symptom of hypothyroidism.
Symptoms differ from person to person. A provider can test for hypothyroidism.
Easing Constipation Safely
Addressing constipation involves basic dietary adjustments, proper hydration, and consultation with a healthcare professional. Guidance from MedlinePlus: constipation recommends eating more fruits, vegetables, and grains high in fiber. That guidance also emphasizes drinking plenty of water and other liquids. MedlinePlus suggests getting enough exercise and asking your provider whether any medicines you take may cause constipation. You should use laxatives only if your healthcare provider says you should.
If your bowel habits change unexpectedly, MedlinePlus advises checking directly with your healthcare provider.
When to Talk to a Clinician
You should consult a healthcare provider when your normal bowel habits change. If you take bile acid sequestrants and experience severe constipation, MedlinePlus instructs you to contact your provider. Do not stop taking the medicine on your own; talk with your provider first.
A healthcare provider can review your prescription list to determine if any medication contributes to bowel difficulties. Clinicians can also order laboratory evaluations to detect underlying conditions such as hypothyroidism.
How to test cholesterol and lipids at home
You don't need a lab appointment to check your own cholesterol and lipids — a few at-home kits mail you a collection kit and return physician-reviewed results online within days:
Prefer to order direct? The Everlywell Cholesterol & Lipids Test uses a CLIA-certified lab, physician-reviewed results, and prepaid return shipping.
What Makes a Good Omega-3 Supplement
What counts is the EPA + DHA content, not the total 'fish oil' number — aim for at least 1,000 mg combined EPA/DHA per serving. Triglyceride-form (rTG) fish oil absorbs better than the cheaper ethyl-ester form, and an IFOS freshness certificate tells you it isn't rancid. Algae-based versions work for vegetarians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does high cholesterol cause constipation?
High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms, so constipation is not listed as one. The National Health Service (NHS) notes that a blood test is the only way to confirm elevated cholesterol. When both complaints occur together, the cause can be coincidence, diet, a medication side effect, or an underlying condition like hypothyroidism.
Does cholesterol medicine cause constipation?
Bile acid sequestrants, a class of cholesterol-lowering medicine, can cause constipation. MedlinePlus states that constipation is the most common side effect of bile acid sequestrants, along with heartburn, gas, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and muscle aches.
Can high cholesterol affect your bowels?
The NHS says high cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms, and bowel changes are not listed among them. According to the NHS, high cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. Any bowel changes experienced alongside high cholesterol can be coincidence, diet, medicine, or an underlying condition.
What can I do about constipation while on cholesterol medicine?
MedlinePlus recommends taking cholesterol pills with plenty of water and with food unless your provider directs otherwise. To relieve constipation, MedlinePlus advises eating more fruits, vegetables, and grains high in fiber, drinking plenty of water, getting regular exercise, and using laxatives only if your provider approves. Contact your provider if constipation is severe, and never stop taking cholesterol medicine without speaking with your doctor first.
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