Monday, October 29, 2007

Combating Constipation

 Combating Constipation by Rulin Xiu, PhD

"Death begins in the colon" quote from Dr. Bernard Jensen

Constipation is more then a just an agonizing condition. It's downright hazardous to your health. Especially when occasional bouts of constipation become chronic. Left untreated, constipation can eventually lead to appendicitis, bad breath, body odor, depression, diverticulitis, fatigue, gas, headaches, hemorrhoids (piles), indigestion, insomnia, malabsorption syndrome, obesity and varicose veins. It may even be involved in the development of serious diseases such as colon cancer.

About 80 percent of all Americans suffer from constipation at some point in their lives. More than 2.5 million Americans seek medical treatment for it every year. In fact, it's the most common complaint patients have about their digestive system. Doctors regularly prescribe a host of medications that aren't always effective and can actually be harmful.

It is absolutely essential for the bowels to move daily and regularly. Why? Think of your colon as a holding tank for waste matter. This waste should be removed within eighteen to twenty-four hours. Any waste remaining for longer then this can produce harmful antigens and toxins from undigested food and bacteria ? which can lead to chronic gas, bloating migraines, fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis.

What Causes Constipation?

In most cases, constipation arises from dietary factors such as insufficient fiber and fluid intake and from the heavy consumption of sugars, meats and highly processed foods. Constipation can also be caused by certain supplements and medications such as iron, painkiller and certain antidepressants.

Physiological problems such as diabetes, kidney failure, metabolic disturbances, low thyroid or high calcium levels can also lead to constipation. Other physiological causes include muscular disorders, structural abnormalities, bowel diseases, accelerated aging and neurogenic disorders. It is also common during pregnancy. In older individuals, constipation is usually caused by dehydration, a common problem among the elderly.

With people of any age, depression and stress can also be a trigger for constipation. Studies show that stress or emotional upset play a role in constipation by affecting the autonomic nervous system. These nerves control the natural contraction of the colon (peristalsis), and stress can trigger spasms or inhibit their normal functioning. Traveling can also cause bowel problems for many.

Recommendations:

The first line of defense against constipation should be a diet rich in high-fiber foods. Fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, whole grains and legumes are all excellent choices. Adequate water intake is also essential, especially with a diet high in fiber.

Second, it's important to avoid constipating and mucous-forming foods such as processed, simple carbohydrates, rich dairy products, heavy meats and oversized meals. Instead, eat smaller, well-balanced, fiber-rich portions. You may also want to add 400 mg of magnesium in the morning and evening because this helps relax the intestinal walls and establish normal paristalsis.

In a discussion, Dr. Xiu spoke with Dr. William Wong, a classical naturopath for over 25 years about current laxatives and the difference between those and natural remedies. Wong cautions against various laxatives on the market: "on-going studies confirm that the chemicals in these products may cause abdominal problems and non are considered safe for long-term use."

Both agree that there is one product that stands out which employs an ancient Tibetan formula that has been found to have notable properties. The ingredients comprise of Chinese Rhubarb Root, Terminahia Chebulic Fruit, Inula and Tibetan Mineral Complex which was developed more then three hundred years ago to combat the relieve of digestive and bowel function disorders problems due to their diet of heavy meats and dairy products (much like our North American diet) that has shown considerable promise.

Chinese Rhubarb Root know as Rheum Palmatum L. Var. Tanguticum has traditionally been used to promote healthy bowel movements, release metabolic toxins, control parasites and remove excess heat from the body. Modern clinical trials demonstrate that rhubarb is a highly effective laxative that works by lubricating the colon and encouraging peristalsis ? without causing diarrhea. Other studies show that Chinese rhubarb also works to balance cholesterol levels and promote healthy blood circulation.

Terminahia Chebulic Fruit has been used throughout China for centuries for the relief of diarrhea, cramping and excess coughing. Modern research demonstrates that the fruit works by mildly relaxing the muscles, including those in the intestines. Chebulic has also been shown to have strong antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties.

Inula know as Vladimiria Souliei (Franch) Ling Root is traditionally used to improve digestion, relieve stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Scientific studies indicate that the root may have its effect through its natural anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Tibetan Mineral Complex from the Mirabilite Crystal mineral beds in Tibet is naturally rich in calcium carbonate, sodium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, iron oxide and 72 essential trace minerals. The mineral complex is traditionally used to release body toxins, excess heat and accumulated body fluids. Modern research shows that this special mineral complex can neutralize stomach acid and also sooth and calm the central nervous system.

In Closing:

Eat a diet rich in high-fiber foods, drink plenty of fluids and choose a product this is all natural formula that will help promote normal healthy bowel function, balance the entire digestive system and help with the detoxification of your body.




Any Questions or Comments to Dr. Xiu, please call Sharon McKeague At Pharm East, Inc. ~ To Harness Nature's Power to Heal Contact Information: P 888-275-3570 P 808-982-3826 F 808-982-3829 E sharonm@pharmeast.com W http://www.pharmeast.com

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