Constipation is something that happens to everyone at one time or another. So often that every day we see new products directed at solving the problem: things like yogurt, cereal bars, pills, etc. Constipation is when bowel movements are infrequent and/or hard to pass. It is commonly painful and can include obstipation (failure to pass gas/stools) and fecal impactation. Constipation can sometimes be a sign of a more serious health problem such as diabetes, hypothyroidism or hypercalcemia.
Although everyone can suffer from Constipation, there are certain groups that are more susceptible to it. For example, women report more problems with constipation than men. People with psychological problems such as severe anxiety, depression, eating disorders or obsessive compulsive disorders are also more vulnerable to constipation. Yet, the need for relief for constipation tends to be most common in people over the age of 65 who have decreased their physical activity and increased their level of medications.
There are two types of Constipation: obstructed defecation and colonic slow transit. The causes for obstructed defecation are usually mechanical and functional causes. While those of colonic slow transit are due to diet, hormones, side effects of medications, and heavy metal toxicity. A diagnosis is usually made from a patient’s description of symptoms, and there are a number of treatments that can be followed. They include changes in dietary habits, laxatives, enemas, biofeedback, and in some cases even surgery.
However, one must be very careful when choosing the treatment. Laxatives although work can make the body dependent, and in turn worsen the problem. Enemas only help when the fecal matter is already out of the intestine, and surgery is just in worst case scenarios; which leaves good dietary habits as the best choice especially when it comes to constipation, a doctor will always end up inquiring about their patients’ fiber intake.
Relief for constipation is easier than people think. In fact it is usually easier to prevent than to treat. Leading a life with adequate exercise, fluid intake and high fiber diet is a must. A diet high in fiber can keep your digestive tract in tip top shape and make you feel good because of it.
There are 3 major benefits to having a diet high in fiber. First and foremost it keeps your digestive system clean and functioning correctly. When that is working right it can affect many aspects of your health in a positive way, as well as lowering the risk of hemorrhoids. Although it is not yet proven, researchers are looking into the theory that fiber plays a role in preventing diseases of the colon such as cancer.
When your body is cleansed from the inside it affects everything from your skin to your cholesterol. Not to mention, it can help prevent dangerous diseases. So tip to remember: take care of your digestive system and it will take care of you!
