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Constipation
Constipation
is a condition in which a person has uncomfortable or infrequent bowel
movement. A person with constipation has hard dry stools as a result
of food moving slowly through the large intestine. The person may
feel as though the rectum has not been completely emptied.
Constipation
can be acute and chronic. The cause of acute constipation may be a
change of diet or physical activity, or occasionally due to serious
medical problems such as the obstruction of large intestine, nerve or
spinal cord injury. Certain medications also cause acute
constipation. Chronic constipation is often the result of too little
physical activity and too little fiber in the diet. High levels of
calcium and low levels of thyroid hormones can also lead to chronic
constipation.
As the colon
stores waste matter, infrequent elimination can lead to toxic accumulation
in the body. Constipation can cause other ailments, such as
appendicitis, bad breath, body odor, gas, hemorrhoids, indigestion,
malabsorption. Toxins from bowel bacteria may also involve in the
development of some other bacterial infections.
Constipation
can be treated with bulking agents, stool softeners, laxatives and enemas
but the most effective way is to maintain a healthy diet, drink enough
fluids, eat fiber-rich foods, and stay active.
Food
supplements for constipation:
Psyllium seed
Psyllium is a bulking agent that helps to
relieve constipation by adding natural fiber to the stool, making it bulk
and easier to pass. Be sure to take it with a full glass of water.
Flaxseed
Another bulking agent which adds natural fiber
to the stool. Flaxseed is also a source of omega-3 essential fatty
acid.
Cascara sagrada
A herb to relieve constipation.
Long term use may cause laxative dependency.
Senna
Senna is one of the strongest herbal stimulant
laxatives. It is advised to use Senna under the advise of doctors or
herbalists.
Apple pectin
Apple pectin is another source of natural
fiber that helps to relieve constipation.
Now Foods, Psyllium Husk Caps
Bob's Red Mill, Organic Whole Ground Flaxseed Meal
Natural Balance, Colon Clenz
(use code "WAN045" - get $5 off your first order)
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