Constipation - Sometimes Not All Things Come to Pass

 

There is a famous saying Jesus once quoted, ?All things must come to pass.? Sometimes, no other words ring more true. Unfortunately, there are people who suffer from an inability to pass anything. I?m not talking about exams, either. I?m talking about a subject that?s a little more sensitive and a lot more personal. I?m talking about constipation.

We asked a few leading doctors on the subject of digestive disorders about constipation and here are some of the more common questions doctors get asked concerning the subject matter. Some of these doctors were also kind enough to give some answers and suggestions.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation happens when bowel movements become difficult or less frequent. The normal length oftime between bowel movements varies from person to person. Some people have bowel movements around three times a day; while others, only one or two times a week. Going longer than three days without a bowel movement is too long. After three days, the stool or feces become harder and more difficult to pass.

You are considered constipated if you have two or more of the following for at least three months:

• Straining during a bowel movement more than a quarter of the time.
• Hard stools more than a quarter of the time.
• Incomplete evacuation more than a quarter of the time.
• Two or fewer bowel movements in a week.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation is usually caused by a disorder of bowel function rather than a structural problem.

Common causes of constipation include:

• Inadequate water intake.
• Inadequate fiber in the diet.
• A disruption of regular diet or routine; traveling.
• Inadequate activity or exercise or immobility.
• Eating large amounts of dairy products.
• Stress.
• Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement, this is sometimes the result of pain from hemorrhoids.
• Overuse of laxatives which, over time, can weaken the bowel muscles.
• Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum.
• Depression.
• Eating disorders.
• Irritable bowel syndrome.
• Pregnancy.
• Colon cancer.

How Can I Prevent Constipation?

• Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber. Fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain bread and cereal (especially bran) are great sources of fiber. Fiber and water help the colon pass stool.
• Drink 1 1/2 to 2 quarts of water and other fluids a day. Liquids that contain caffeine, such as coffee and soft drinks, seem to have a dehydrating effect and may need to be avoided until your bowel habits return to normal. Some people may need to avoid milk, as dairy products can be constipating for them.
• Exercise regularly.
• Move your bowels when you feel the urge.

What Should I Do If I am Constipated?

• Drink two to four extra glasses of water a day. Try drinking warm liquids, especially in the morning.
• Add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
• Eat prunes and/or bran cereal.
• If needed, use a very mild stool softener or laxative. Do not use laxatives for more than two weeks without calling your doctor, as laxative overuse can aggravate your symptoms.

Seek the opinion of your doctor before following of any diet treatment and regiment. Only a doctor can provide you with advice on what is safe and most effective for you.

For further information on keeping your colon healthy, visit the experts at Dual Action Cleanse at http://www.dualactioncleansenow.com Dual Action Cleanse?s all-natural herbal ultimate colon cleanse formula has changed hundreds of thousands of people's lives through gentle and effective whole body safe and effective internal body cleansing.

Treatments For Constipation With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The most common treatments for constipation with Irritable Bowel Syndrome are fiber supplements and taking a laxative, but do these options offer the best approach?

When a person suffers from Irritable Bowel Syndrome they will more than likely find themselves caught in 1 of 2 extreme situations: loose bowels or constipation.

It is likely they have already taken numerous over-the-counter remedies for several years before being formally diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

However, over the counter treatments are usually not effective in clearing up the problem, as they tend to treat the symptoms of IBS, rather than the cause of the condition.

A much better approach that can get to the cause of IBS misery is to make changes to your diet, lifestyle and exercise patterns.

Many people have seen improvements to their IBS symptoms by making lifestyle changes. In fact there are a number of studies that suggest it is the lifestyle of the person that can often be the original cause for the condition in the first place.

One of these lifestyle changes includes reducing stress either through counseling or other methods. You should also make sure that you exercise regularly, one of the best methods for promoting good digestion and effective bowel function is simply walking.

You will also need to maintain proper hydration and nutrition. This means that you will need to drink at least 64 ounces of water each day, which will help minimize your bouts with constipation.

It is also important to understand that there are likely to be foods that can further irritate your gastrointestinal (GI) tract and bring on IBS symptoms.

In order to figure out what foods you are going to need to avoid try maintaining a food diary. It is a useful way to keep track of the food you eat, the quantity, what time the food was eaten and if there where any symptoms that followed.

This diary system has helped thousands of IBS sufferers pinpoint the foods that leads to symptoms like constipation.

There are some common foods that IBS sufferers seem to be more sensitive to, these tend to be diary products, chocolate, soda and carbonated drinks, caffeinated drinks including coffee, and foods high in fat, like french fries. So it is really worth keeping a close track on these foods when consumed to see if they are the ones causing IBS symptoms in you.

There are also 3 different medications that your doctor may prescribe. The first is an antispasmodic, which will reduce colon spasms and pain. These spasms can also upset the balance of your digestive tract and lead to additional health issues.

The second medication you may be prescribed is an antidepressant, which will help you to relax and thus potentially reduce some of the IBS triggers.

The third and final medication that may be prescribed is a muscle relaxant. These are usually prescribed instead of the first two because antispasmodics and antidepressants can cause dehydration, which may only lead to more problems with constipation.

There are natural alternatives to these medications, which you can find out about by signing up to our free newsletter below.

Please ensure that you consult your doctor, nutritionist or dietician if you are going to make considerable changes to your diet, as although the changes may be beneficial in the long run, changing your diet too quickly can actually bring on IBS symptoms.

Researchers are working to develop combination medications that will treat constipation with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. However, they have not been able to determine what causes this disorder yet. Until they figure this out, doctors can only treat you for the symptoms that you have.Sign up for the free Irritable Bowel Syndrome Newsletter and discover new and natural methods to manage your Constipation with Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Some Of The Most Common Causes Of Hemorrhoids Include Genetics, Constipation And Ruptured Veins

Having a hemorrhoid condition can often lead to the patient having jokes cracked about his or her condition. It is however, not a very funny matter and deserves to be taken seriously, and if you happen to be the unfortunate one that has hemorrhoids you will certainly not be amused by being laughed at given the fact that it is an extremely painful experience that you would not wish your worst enemy to suffer.

Hemorrhoids can also lead to other serious health concerns, if it is left untreated. You may have either internal or external hemorrhoids with the latter being more painful, though internal hemorrhoids can cause bleeding in the rectum as well.

You can be sure that the cause of hemorrhoids will most probably be a rupture of a vein, which will cause blood to spill from the rupture and even turn into a blood clot. This is the springboard from where hemorrhoids can exacerbate into one of the two forms ? internal or external hemorrhoids.

Possible Causes

The cause of hemorrhoids may also be a genetic factor where the rectal veins may not be strong enough, and thus may easily get ruptured resulting in hemorrhoids. Another cause of hemorrhoids could be straining too much while passing motion, and this is a common cause of hemorrhoids that may even occur in a person that has strong veins, but need to strain excessively, thus rupturing a vein.

If you are overweight, then this is another probable cause of hemorrhoids, and it is a condition more pronounced in obese persons who are always going to be at greater risk of developing hemorrhoids. Not exercising enough too can be adduced as being a cause of hemorrhoids; while continuing problems with a person?s bowel movements is it diarrhea or constipation may help in the person developing hemorrhoids.

The instance of pregnant women developing hemorrhoids is also quite common and the childbearing period is another time when a person will likely suffer from hemorrhoids. Thus pregnancy can also be linked to being a cause of hemorrhoids. Age does not seem to impact whether a person is at risk of developing hemorrhoids or not, and anyone of any gender may get it.

You may also attribute standing to be a cause of hemorrhoids, which causes blood to pressurize the rectal as well as anal areas. Constipation too is a cause of hemorrhoids as is frequently putting too much stress when having bowel movements. Being erect can cause hemorrhoids due to the amount of pressure placed on the veins in the anal parts of the human body.Ann Marier has written many articles on different health issues Her latest articles are about hemorrhoids and the best hemorrhoid cures

Eliminating Constipation And Dehydration To Eliminate Weight Retention

Does your practitioner ever stop to ask you how are your bowels moving? What about your nutritionist? Your personal trainer? Chances are, unless you are suffering from a serious bout of irregularity or IBS, no one has brought it up yet, have they? It?s interesting, because the more you think about what you eat, the more you should be concerned about what is making its way out!

The old saying goes, ?You are what you eat.? Generally speaking, our meals travel through our digestive system in about 12-24 hours. This passage is called transit time, and when all systems are firing properly, (ie: stomach acids, digestive enzymes, bile production) we will typically have 1-3 healthy bowel movements per day, assuring that nutrients are used, and waste is excreted. Healthy digestion means our body is able to use the nutrients we consume, and a healthy system finds its natural weight. It also makes for an absence of symptoms such as gas & bloating, nausea, and constipation.

The nutrition industry, often modifies the saying above to read ?You are what you eat, and what you absorb,? recognizing once you consume good foods your digestion and constitution must be strong enough to break down and utilize what you are getting through the diet. Unhealthy or impaired digestion can lead to a failure to absorb ones? foods properly, causing a cascade of problems including acid indigestion, irritable bowel and a failure to thrive.

Digestive care specialists will often comment, ?You are what you eat, but also what you do not eliminate.? Indeed, if your bowels are irregular, then what are you made of? Where is all that undigested & constipated food going? A-ha, waste and trash build-up! I don?t intend that to sound flippant, I am genuinely serious about this. So there we have the connection between constipation & weight retention. And the answer is simple: Improve digestion & eliminate constipation, and you will encourage your body to naturally shed excess weight. Simple dietary changes such as adding more fiber, and seasonal colon cleansing can help you promote regularity & associated weight loss.

The scale is a difficult measurement tool to trust, especially over a short period of time. That is because our weight fluctuates due to the amount of food in our belly, as well as the amount of water we are retaining around our cells. So what we see on the bathroom scale isn?t necessarily representative of our fat stores. If your body is dehydrated, it can become constipated, and will do all it can to hold onto what little liquid we consume. This can lead to a decrease in the number of healthy eliminations, (i.e. constipation,) which leads to a greater likelihood of a higher reading on the scale.

It?s a vicious cycle, but one that can easily be broken if you give your body the right tools. If the body has sufficient water to hydrate the system, it will eliminate more water through urination. If the bowels are given a fiber rich diet, they will be more regular, and these eliminations will also promote a natural weight.

So let?s assure that, ?We are what we eat and that we eliminate properly.? A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains will provide the nutrients & fiber which keep our body functioning optimally, keep our energy high and our constitution strong and healthy. And isn?t that better than being full of waste & suffering from overweight?
Cassandra Cox is a 10-year veteran of the natural products industry. Having received her credentials as both a Nutritional Consultant and Digestive Care Specialist. Nutrition Weight Loss

Insomnia, Constipation, And Anxiety Are Treated With Daily Oil Massage

Daily oil massage plays a major role in preventing complications from stress like hypertension, depression, headaches, and more. In India massage is a natural part of daily life. Infants are massaged every day from the day they are born to age three, and weekly after that. By age six, children are massaging their elders. It's common for entire families to massage one another once a week. Pregnant women are massaged daily during pregnancy and for more than a month after giving birth. Sensual massage with aphrodisiac oils is advised in treatises on sexology.

In Ayurveda, bathing is a ritual designed to clean you inside and out, and begins with the application of oil. Applying oil to your skin lubricates, protects, detoxifies, and rejuvenates your skin and nervous system, while soothing your endocrine system. The oil helps loosen and liquefy ama so that the toxins can drain into the body's gastrointestinal tract for elimination. It is an excellent antidote for modern stresses and is said to help you achieve the balance that is the foundation of spiritual development. As the body's largest and most sensitive organ, your skin deserves abhyanga every day.

In Ayurveda getting a massage or giving one to yourself is one of the most effective and pleasant ways you can balance vata and is a wonderful way to start the day. With regular practice you'll see why abhyanga is considered to be the crown jewel of rejuvenation, prevention, and longevity. Sesame oil is recommended for vata, pitta, and kapha types, and for healthy people as well as those suffering from an illness. The only exception is when your kapha is aggravated in this case you should use a dry massage, described below. Be sure to get cold-pressed organic oil from a health food store. Olive oil is also acceptable, and coconut oil works well for pitta types. Never use mineral oil or any other oil that is not digestible (the skin is a digestive organ). It's traditional to cook the oil one time, heating it until it forms tiny bubbles. This is said to cure the oil and prevent it from turning rancid. Certain condi?tions respond best to medicated oils?oils to which special herbs and fragrant spices have been added, as specified in the A?Z section. Once you've been treating yourself to abhyanga regularly, it's hard to stop, and even busy people manage to make time.

"If I get lazy or pressed for time and skip my daily abhyanga, I really start to miss it. I feel scattered, less grounded, less able to cope. I love the little pool of serenity it creates in the morning . . . a quiet, sensual time just for myself before I get swept up in the madness of the day. I think what a different world it would be if everyone had v,p,k, massage in the morning

http://www.drhelenthomas.com/health_care/store/massage_oils_2.html California License to Practice Chiropractic 1983 Bachelors From California Institute of Integral Studies Focus Ayurveda Trained In Practicing Ayurveda in California for fifteen years. First Ayurved Formal education : Mah

Overcoming Constipation Naturally

Constipation may be defined as infrequent or incomplete bowel movements often characterized by stools that are hard, dry and difficult to pass due to slow transit time through the gastrointestinal tract. Transit time is the amount of time that elapses between the ingestion of food and when it is excreted in the form of stool.

In conventional medical circles, it is considered ?normal? to have a bowel movement as infrequently as three times each week, but many holistic practitioners would consider the normal range of bowel movements to be between two and three every day. The thinking here is that three movements would be ideal because we generally eat three meals daily. Ideally, when food enters the stomach, a nerve impulse is sent to the colon, prompting it to contract and release its contents. This gastrocolic reflex, when functioning properly, would cause us to empty our colons after each meal.

With constipation, a wide range of symptoms may be experienced. These can include abdominal discomfort, rectal discomfort, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, headache, lower back pain, and a general feeling of malaise. When bowel transit time is slow, waste is not promptly eliminated from the body. It will consequently decay or ferment, producing poisonous chemicals. This reabsorption of toxins into the body can increase the risk of developing colon disease and other serious digestive health problems.

As an alternative to conventional laxatives, optional nutritional approaches may help prevent and provide relief for occasional constipation. A high-fiber diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds may help ease elimination and promote two to three healthy bowel movements each day. These foods contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which work together to soak up toxins in the digestive tract and sweep the colon free of debris by removing toxins from the intestinal wall. Herbal supplements may also help to cleanse and detoxify the body, and a gentle, natural colon cleanse formula can hydrate and strengthen the colon.

Lifestyle changes may also help reduce the risk of becoming constipated. Try waking up a little earlier each morning and allowing yourself time to go to the bathroom, and set aside time during the day to do the same. Make sure when you are on the toilet that your feet are elevated and you assume a squatting position. This will ensure that the colon is in the proper position for elimination.

Exercise also helps stimulate the body?s digestive process. Incorporating at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise into your daily routine may help stimulate peristalsis (the wave-like movement of food through your intestines) and promote healthy elimination.
Brenda Watson is passionate about helping people worldwide live healthier, longer lives through daily diet and lifestyle changes. She is the President of Renew Life Formulas and founder of five natural healthcare clinics. Constipation Remedy

Headaches, Insomnia, Anxiety And Constipation Are Rooted In Vata Imbalance.

Headaches, insomnia, anxiety and constipation have the same root cause which is a vata imbalance according to ayurveda. Until recently modern Western medicine believed that health was simply the absence of disease. Illness was caused purely by something outside the body, the way a hammer hitting your toe causes pain?viruses caused colds, allergens caused allergies, stress caused anxiety, carcinogens caused cancer, and so on. The solution was to find the right pill and the disease would be cured.

But today we know that the seeds of illness are sown way before obvious symptoms appear. The absence of a readily diagnosable disease is no longer the definition of health?people want to feel good, not just "not bad." The hammer-hitting-the-toe model of disease doesn't explain the wide variation in people's abilities to resist illness or recover from illness. When you encounter a cold virus, you have only one chance in eight of getting a cold. Seven out of eight times your mind-body is able to defend itself. Clearly the virus is only one small factor?the state of your general health is paramount.

By focusing on physical cause and effect Western medicine has looked at individual organs in isolation, as separate from one another and from the mind and spirit. By way of contrast ancient civilizations were intimately in touch with their nonphysical selves and had rich inner lives. They knew what modern science is just now starting to realize: The mind and body are so connected as to be indistinguishable from each other.In many ways modern science is only beginning to catch up with Ayurveda. In many ways modern science is only beginning to catch up with Ayurveda. For example research is discovering that certain people are constitutionally prediposed to certain illnesses, and proving that lifestyle practices and gentle herbal medicines can make a huge difference in our ability to resist disease, recover from illness, and extend our lives. That's exactly what the ancient science of Ayurveda has been saying for thousands of years. Headaches, insomnia, anxiety and constipation have the same root cause which is a vata imbalance and this is an example of genetic predisposition according to body type.

http://www.drhelenthomas.com Hi I am a practicing Chiropractor for the last 25 years. Ayurveda came into my life in 1984. I have studied with the best in the nation and the best in India. It is a practice that takes a lifetime to become a master. I love teaching it and practicing it.

The Best Natural Cures For Constipation Come From The Choice Of Food We Eat

Even though it is not something that a lot of people like to talk about, we all have to deal with constipation on occasion. As a child I was told that I had a problem with this, but I never felt any sort of pain. When I would get sick, someone would always inevitably ask me when was the last time I used the bathroom. At that time in my life it was only once every two or three days, and they were always concerned that something was wrong with me. One particular babysitter was very concerned about my problem even though it wasn?t bothering me. She often talked about natural cures for constipation to make things better for me.

My mother wasn?t concerned because she had talked to my doctor about it and he wasn?t concerned. As long as I was not in any sort of pain, or is not affecting my health, he saw nothing wrong with the frequency of my trips to the bathroom. He did however say that natural cures for constipation may help me become more regular as I got older. When you think of natural cures for constipation you may be thinking of some sort of medicine, but you should know that there are simpler ways to go about this.

Some of the best natural cures for constipation are things that you eat every day. In many cases, there are no medications needed. If you were to eat, for example, raisin bran on a daily basis, you will find that you are more regular thing you ever were before. Other natural cures for constipation might be eating prunes, though they are not very pleasant, or any other type of fruit that aids in digestion. You may also want to try cereals that are high in fiber each morning for breakfast.

For some people though, these natural cures for constipation don?t work. When you are constipated, there is not enough liquid in your system. You may want to concentrate on drinking more water, and staying away from foods that are known to cause constipation. If you have a thing for cheese, you may want to cut back on how much you eat. If you find that you are still having problems, you may want to talk to your doctor about other natural cures for constipation that you have not considered yet. If these don?t work, your doctor may have to give you a prescription or do some additional testing to find out what is going on with your body.
Ann Merier writes articles about and health issues. Article topics include diabetes,detox diet,yoga,pilates exercise Natural Cures For Constipation Articles on Health Care

How To Find Relief From Ibs Constipation

 

A person, who suffers from irritable bowel syndrome, primarily suffers from one of three symptoms.

1. Diarrhea
2. Alteration of diarrhea and constipation
3. Constipation

Although, it is less common for a person with IBS to suffer from predominant constipation than diarrhea, for those who do, there are ways to find relief from constipation, abdominal pain and bloating.

There are different treatment options - both medicinal and alternative remedies -for those who suffer from constipation. The following is information regarding diverse treatments and what you need to know about each.

Diet
Constipation symptoms may be caused by specific foods that are being ingested. Therefore, try keeping a food diary to find out what foods may not only be making constipation worse, but may help to relieve your symptoms.

For instance, gluten is recognized as one of the leading causes of constipation in IBS sufferers. Therefore, a gluten-free diet may help alleviate symptoms. In order to eliminate gluten from your diet ensure you read food labels to see if gluten is among listed ingredients. However, keep in mind that gluten-free foods tend to be low in fiber. Therefore, you may require other sources of fiber such as eating more fruits and vegetables.

If you are considering a gluten-free diet it?s a good idea to consult a dietitian to find out how effective this diet control is for constipation.

Fiber supplements
Fiber supplements are designed to add bulk to the stool so that waste can travel faster through the intestines. That being said fiber supplements need to be taken with great care, as problems can occur.

For instance, inundating the boy with fiber without sufficient water intake, can cause bloating, gas and make constipation worse. It is imperative to drink plenty of water when taking fiber supplements because fiber absorbs water.

Furthermore, natural fiber sources, such as bran, can aggravate the stomach of an IBS sufferer. This is because bran contains high amounts of wheat and gluten which are not tolerated well by an IBS stomach.

Nonetheless, the right fiber supplement taken as recommended may be helpful in relieving constipation in some sufferers. Fiber supplements such as Metamucil, Konsyl or Citrucel can be found in pharmacies, but it is a good idea to talk to your doctor first and learn more about supplements before starting treatment.

Laxatives
Laxatives are an effective short-term solution for relieving constipation. However, there are different types of laxatives and some are stronger than others. Although laxatives may work in the body differently, depending on the type, each is designed to soften stool so it can slide easier through the intestines. One such laxative that is often recommended to IBS sufferers is milk of magnesia. This is a gentle laxative that is known as a hydrating agent and causes the intestines to retain more water to soften stool.

Laxatives are not recommended for long-term use and can be habit forming. If laxatives are taken for long periods of time, the body will eventually develop immunity and require stronger laxative methods. Prolonged used of laxatives can also make constipation worse and make the body laxative-dependent. Furthermore, be advised that stimulant laxatives such as Ex-lax are powerful and very hard on the system.

Make sure you investigate different over-the-counter laxative products, and speak to your doctor about laxative treatment before using this remedy.

Prescription drugs
Consider talking to you doctor about prescription medication for relief of constipation. Zelnorm is one of the newer drug treatments for IBS constipation and works by increasing stool movement in the bowels. Zelnorm has been found to effectively alleviate abdominal pain, bloating and constipation, and is only prescribed for short-term use.

Finally, regular exercise and drinking plenty of water helps to relieve constipation, and are natural remedies that can be used with any form of constipation treatment.

By S. Reynolds. Sign up for a free IBS newsletter & discover more about treating IBS symptoms.

Finding A Natural Cure For Constipation

 

If you want to use a natural cure for constipation you need to do a number of things relating to how you live your life and what your diet consists of. But unlike medicinal treatments and other treatment methods a natural cure is both a simple and easy to practice and have far less side effects than the others. Often natural cures are able to eliminate completely infrequent or mild bouts of constipation.

Dietary changes which a person suffering from constipation should make should include them eating more fiber which is found in fresh fruit (bananas, apples, papaya, grapes and oranges), fresh vegetables, whole grains and pulses. They should also ensure that they drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water each day.

A good thing that you should avoid if you are suffering from constipation is alcohol, processed and junk goods, foods and drinks which contain caffeine as they can cause dehydration and avoid drugs and medication if you can.

Guava (but is must have the seeds) because of their roughness is a great way of getting relief from constipation. Also eating bran cereal not just for adults but for children as well is another way of safeguarding against constipation. A more natural way for the elderly to deal with constipation is to drink milk that has either extra sugar or honey in it.

A great natural way of helping to prevent and alleviate constipation is to exercise daily you do not need to exercise vigorously all you need to do is walk for about 30 to 40 minutes each day will be more than enough.

Today there are many kinds of natural laxatives available which will help cure constipation and they are made to relax the bowel muscle walls and reduce any anxiety or tension that a person feels. They are also good for enhancing the functions of a person?s liver and gall bladder and improve the flow of bile in the body which improves the digestion of food.

For many centuries herbs were used by tribes and some cultures around the world and are becoming more and more popular as a natural way of treating constipation. Herbs such as Aloe Vera, Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale) and the Passiflora Species are ones which have laxative properties and also help the digestive system as well as acting as a tonic for a person?s liver. These herbs can often be used in treating both chronic and occasional bouts of constipation and almost all of them have no side effects associated with them.

You can buy these herbs in tablet form as well and each tablet contains a definite amount of the fresh herb within them. So with these you are able to change the amount you take according to the type of constipation you are suffering from. Also most of these tablets can be used alongside a digestion tonic as well.

So as you can see there are a number of natural cures for constipation that are available and which will assist if you should suffer from this problem at any point in your life.
Lee Dobbins writes for Colon Articles where you can learn more about the importance of a health colon as well as find out about more natural cures for constipation.

Your Dog Can Suffer From Constipation Too

 

It is not only humans that suffer from constipation, but our pets can too! Dog constipation is normally caused due to a lack of exercise and an incorrect diet. In this article we will look at ways that dog constipation can be treated using some home remedies.

As previously mentioned ensuring that your dog's diet is good and that they are getting sufficient exercise are the most important components for ensuring that your dog's bowels work correctly. Any dog that is kept in the home should be walked 2 times a day whilst their diet should be correctly maintained.

However if your dog does become constipated a good way of alleviating the problem is to add 1 or 2 teaspoons of bran to it meal. This allows extra moisture to appear in its stools.

Another way that you can treat your dog should it become constipated is by adding Psyllium (Metamucil) to their diet. Just giving them ? teaspoon each day plus providing them with lots of drinking water will help to alleviate the constipation that they have.

The next option you could try is to add 2 teaspoons of mineral oil to their meals twice a day for a week and this is especially good where there is a large build up of hard stools in your dog.

As you can see there are a number of steps you can take in order to help your dog if they should suffer from constipation but by keeping his food moist (add a little water) will help? Or if your dog is a little more mature then include some raw meat and vegetables into their diet.

Often there are certain signs which will alert you to any potential problems your dog may have and for which you can act on immediately. If your dog has a long coat then sometimes the stools can become entangled in the coat and it is vital you keep your dog properly groomed.

Also dogs have a tendency to eat everything in sight so make sure there are no bones or other materials that they may ingest. Dogs may also suffer from constipation because of a medication that they are on. But there may even be a psychological reason as to why your dog has become constipated (they could be stressed even dogs get stressed to).

Although it has been suggested that dogs of all breeds and no matter what age can be prone to constipation and so there may be some other factors that need to be taken into consideration which may be caused by you as an owner. Do not ever feed your dog from the dinner table as you are contributing to his constipation.

It is important that you do not feed your dog food which contains flour, sugar, rice, dairy or are high in protein as they will on excacerbate the situation. Also included in this would be ice cream, cooks, bread, chocolate or any other foods that we consider to be unhealthy.

Not only can constipation in dogs be caused by lack of fiber or fluids but also by a mega colon (an inflamed colon which prevents your dog from discharging their stools).

The time you should decide to visit your vet if your dog is suffering from constipation is when they have a loss of appetite; begin to pass small amounts of blood and general they look and act very lethargic.

It is important that you are very vigilant to any signs of stress and make your that your dog's diet and exercise regime is appropriate for them and hopefully this will alleviate or prevent dog constipation in your pet.

Lee Dobbins writes for Colon Articles where you can learn more about keeping a healthy colon and read more about constipation in humans and animals.

Get Regular With This Constipation Remedy Guide

Finding an effective constipation remedy that will help relieve the pain can seem quite daunting for those who regularly suffer from constipation. Constipation is a condition where a person has difficulty moving their bowels and there are a number of ways in which it can be diagnosed such as a physical examination, colorectal transit study, anorectal function tests, barium enema x-ray, and sigmoidoscopy or through a colonoscopy.

However there are number of constipation remedies around which should hopefully help to improve the situation as well as remove the problem.

A good one to use is to train your bowel. If you can attempt to have a bowel movement at the same time each day (preferably first thing in the morning) as this is when your colon activity is at its highest and you can practice this quite easily.

Ensure that you improve your eating habits but including plenty of high fiber foods (cereals), and lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. It is important that if you suffer from constipation you limit the amount of ice cream, cheese, meat and processed foods that you consume.

Drink plenty of water (about 1.5-2 litres each day) and avoid those drinks which can cause dehydration such as coffee and alcohol.

Also take up some form of regular exercise and not only will it help to alleviate the problems associated with constipation it will provide you with other health benefits as well.

However, if you find that are still not having regular bowel movements even if you have made the changes above then you wish to consider using a bulk forming laxative such Psyllium or Methylcellulose and they can be used for a long time without any side effects.

There are also other medications that can be used to remedy constipation such as Hyprosmotics, Lactulose, Polyethylene Glycol, Glycerin and Sorbital as well as salines like Magnesium Hydroxide, Magnesium Citrate and Sodium Phosphate.

However if you have found that neither of the above methods work for you then you may try such medications as Anthraquinones such as Cascara Sagrada, Emollients such as Docusates, Senna and Mineral Oil. There are also stimulants such as Phenolphthalein, Castor Oil or Bisacodyl which may also help to remedy the problems associated with constipation but such medications as these need to be used under strict supervision of a doctor or healthcare worker and only as a short term measure as most of these have some side effects.

People who are using laxatives should discontinue use slowly and after some time the colon will be restored to its normal working balance.

Finally, you should only use enemas or suppositories as an emergency treatment and if all else fails then surgery may be your only alternative.

Lee Dobbins writes for Colon Articles where you can learn more about having a healthy colon and read about more constipation remedies.

Treating Infant Constipation Gently And Safely

In this article we will look at infant constipation treatment and how best to deal with constipation when an infant is suffering from it.

The best way in which any parent could treat an infant who is suffering from constipation is by changing the child?s diet. The constipation will not improve without a change of diet and they will also probably be using stool softeners as well.

The goal of any infant constipation treatment is so that the child has 1 or 2 soft stools each day. So why not give them 2 to 4 ounces of water or diluted fruit juice once or twice a day. Or you may want to swap the formula they are drinking at the moment for a soy formula instead.

If however your infant is older than 4 months and suffering from constipation then you may want to try feeding them lots of fiber which are contained in cereals, strained prunes, apricots or spinach.

A great way of helping an infant suffering from constipation is by massaging their stomach. Begin at the belly button and then massage outwards in circles in a clockwise direction. Put some baby oil or cream on your fingers as this will help with the massage. However if your child becomes upset or uncomfortable with the massage then stop it.

Or you try moving your infant?s legs in a cycling motion whilst they are laid on their backs. Just hold their legs and then gently move them in a quick cycling motion. This will cause the stomach muscles to move and this in turn will put gentle pressure on the infant?s intestines and make them move.

Another great way of helping an infant suffering from constipation is to give them a warm bath which will help them to relax and thus their stools will be passed more easily. After the bath and when your infant is more relaxed you could try massaging their stomach again. Also after a bath apply some cream or Vaseline to the area around the infant?s anus. It is important that you do not put a thermometer or anything inside your infant?s anus to stimulate bowel movement as this will only cause damage to your child.

There are a number of different ways as shown above which can be used for infant constipation treatment and as long as you watch what they eat and ensure that they have plenty of fluids they should not suffer with this problem too much.

Lee Dobbins writes for Colon Articles where you can learn more about keeping your colon healthy and ways to deal with constipation.

Pregnancy Constipation Symptoms And Treatments

During this article we will discuss the problem of pregnancy constipation and hopefully provide you with some ways in which to treat it.

Where some women may feel bloated or they may pass small rabbit like stools others may often have to strain when they are actually having bowel movement.

Pregnant women will often suffer from constipation during the pregnancy and in the days after they have actually delivered the baby. Some women may even suffer from painful bowel movements after having a episiotomy (a repair made to torn rectal tissue). Women who have had an episiotomy will often consciously or unconsciously try to prevent themselves from having a bowel movement. Whilst some women who have had a caesarean section will find that their bowel movement is temporarily paralyzed and is known as an ileus.

Below are some helpful hints wish should help to alleviate or prevent constipation from occurring.

1. Make sure you exercise daily. It is a great way of preventing constipation and even light to moderate walking will help to loosen your bowels as well as making you feel lest bloated.

2. Drink lots of fluids. Whilst pregnant the amount of water absorbed from your intestines into your blood increases. So it is important that you increase the amount of water you drink to keep both your intestines and the baby healthy. You really should try a drink at least 10 x 8 ounce glasses of water a day and if you are somewhere that is hot and humid then your water intake should be increased further. By keeping your body hydrated with water you will help to prevent constipation.

3. Calcium and Vitamin Supplements. It is important that you take the appropriate supplements but be aware that there are some which can cause bloating and constipation. Studies have been carried out which show the best calcium supplements for a pregnant woman to take are those which dissolve easily in the pH of vinegar such as TUMS and Cal citrate. It is vital that you avoid antacids which contain aluminum as these will only cause constipation.

There are prenatal vitamins around which have been specifically formulated for use by pregnant women and that their digestive tract will tolerate. These types of vitamins will cause less nausea and bloating and they contain iron, Folate and B Vitamins all of which are essential to a pregnant woman.

4. However there are some pregnant women who will need to take a stool softener in order to relieve their constipation and these work by decreasing the wall tension between the colon and the stool. They act mainly as a way of keeping a pregnant woman?s stools soft so making their removal from a pregnant woman?s body much easier.

5. A great natural remedy you could use when pregnant is to alternate between hot and cold food and drinks. A simple way of doing this is to either drink cold fluid or eat ice chips and then drink a warm fluid (may be tea). Doing this will help to stimulate and tone your bowel as well as helping to release gas that has been building up in your bowel.

6. Other women may find that resting in bed for either all or part of their pregnancy helps.

Hopefully the hints provided above will any constipation problems that occur during your pregnancy and it is important that you talk to your doctor about any problems you are having in relation to constipation. Unfortunately pregnancy constipation that a lot of women will have to contend with when they are having a child and normally clears up after the birth.
Lee Dobbins writes for Colon Articles where you can learn more about taking care of your colon and read articles on preventing and treating constipation.

8 Steps For Avoiding Constipation

 

Many people suffer from constipation and, in fact, it is so common that you might think it is normal and cannot be avoided. But this couldn't be further from the truth, constipation is not a normal state it is a direct result of you lifestyle you lead which includes the food you eat and those which your diet lacks. Luckily, you can avoid constipation and here are nine things you can do to ensure that your digestive system always runs like clockwork.

1. Get enough fiber. I'm sure you've heard this one before, but are you really getting enough? The average adult should get 25 to 35 g of fiber a day and if you aren't eating a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole wheat products then chances are you are getting way less than that. Fiber helps add roughage to your bowel movements and aids your bowels in working correctly so it is vital if you want to have regular movements and avoid constipation.

2. Get enough fluids. If you don't drink enough fluids, your stools will become hard and this will make it more difficult to have a ball movement. You should drink at least eight 8 oz glasses of water a day and avoid caffeinated beverages as these do nothing to add water to your intestines where it is needed most.

3. Dieting? If you are on a diet that has you eating foods you are not used to or foods that don't have a lot of fiber such as some of the low-carb diets that put a big emphasis on protein than the changing your eating habits as well as the lack of fiber can be causing constipation. Make sure you get plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits every day.

4. Medications. Many medications cause constipation so if you're on any medicine it's a good idea to check it to see if it is constipation causing. If it is, you'll want to counteract it by adding even more fiber into your diet and making sure you get enough water to correct.

5. Pregnancy. Pregnant women often suffer from constipation due to the many changes going on in their body. The best way to combat this, and also the healthiest way, is to get a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet as well as drink a lot of water.

6. Decrease your coffee consumption. Caffeinated coffee can cause you to become constipated because the caffeine acts as a diuretic and causes water to be lost in your urine instead of placing the water in your colon where it can help solve your stools.

7. Distress. If you're stressed out than chances are this can be adding to your bowel problems. Try practicing stress relief by taking a hot bath, doing yoga or just relaxing in front of the fire.

8. Exercise. Exercising is a great way to get everything moving and help relieve constipation. Walking is especially good as the gentle rocking motion can help stimulate your bowels into action. Try taking a half-hour walk every day it is many health benefits not the least of which is helping you to avoid constipation.

Constipation doesn't have to be a way of life. If you live a healthier lifestyle with lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains and avoid package and processed foods as well as include some moderate exercise and you'll find that you become more regular as well as healthier.
Lee Dobbins writes for Colon Articles where you can learn about good colon health and get more tips on avoiding constipation.

Avoid These Foods That Cause Constipation And Really Get Things Moving Again

 

There are quite a few foods that cause constipation and eliminating this problem from your life may require a bit of a change in the way you eat as you will have to add in more fiber as well as avoid the foods that content to bind you up.

The biggest cause of constipation is a lack of fiber in the diet. That combined with eating high-fat foods, not getting enough exercise and dehydration from not drinking enough water all contribute to lack of movement in your bowels. So if you really want to get things moving again you?ll need to take some action.

Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and especially those high in fiber such as pears, peas, broccoli and apples with the skin on will certainly help as they will add fiber to your diet. This fiber turns into a gel like substance when combined with water in your body and passes through the intestines adding bulk which helps make stools softer and easier to pass.

But how much fiber is enough?

The recommended daily amount Is 25 to 35 grams and I think if you do the math and look at all the food you eat during the day you?ll probably see that you are getting somewhere between only five and 14 g which is what the average American gets each day. No wonder there is such a problem with constipation in America in such a glut of laxatives and fiber products on the market!

Now if you can?t fit 35 grams of fiber and via fruits vegetables and whole grains you can try a fiber supplement. If you do, however, be sure that you drink enough water along with the supplement in during the day so that It can do Its thing. of course, it?s best to get your fiber the natural way into either way you want to make sure to drink plenty of water as this will help to make softer stools.

In addition to adding fiber to your diet there are some foods which can contribute to constipation and if you have a problem in this area you should probably avoid them. These foods include:

Meats
Ice Cream
Cheese
Snacks like pizza and chips
Processed foods (most anything that comes in a package!)

In today?s fast-paced society, everyone in adults and children included even way too many refined and over processed foods. these foods have had not only all the nutrients stripped out but the fiber stripped as well.
You go to the grocery store take a look at a few of the packages and see what the fiber content on some of these foods is - how much of these foods we do have to eat to get your 35 g of fiber a day? So you can see why constipation is such a problem today.

So if you want to get things moving again and have a satisfying bowel movement every day ( or two or three times a day) then you want to avoid the above foods that cause constipation, stop eating processed foods and start eating more fresh fruits and vegetables which will give you the necessary fiber as well as nutrients that are vital to your overall health.

Lee Dobbins writes for Colon Articles where you can learn more about how to take good care of your colon and never suffer from constipation again.

Effective Home Remedies For Constipation

 

Disturbance in your digestive tract is commonly referred to as constipation. In this disorder, there is an irregular movement of your bowels. Constipation itself is a root to many diseases and disorders. This is because it produces toxins in the blood serum and then those are carried to the other body parts. It can cause other diseases such as rheumatism, appendicitis, arthritis, cataract, high blood pressure and even cancer in some of the rarest cases.

The symptoms of constipation include irregular elimination of faecal matter that is hard in nature. The other symptoms are foul breath, coated tongue, loss of appetite, depression, nausea and dizziness. Ulcers in the mouth can also occur sometimes with varicose veins and heart burn.

The main cause of such a state of disorder is the bad lifestyle patterns that you follow, coupled with improper diet. Insufficient intake of water and excessive use of coffee and tea can also lead to this state. Drinking, irregular eating, insufficient chewing, all together makes the functioning of your bowels poor. Apart from this lack of physical activities and and irregular defecation habits with emotional stress and strain, also lead to constipation.

But you can always cure constipation. If the medicines are doing nothing good to you, then you have the option of home remedial treatments. They are:

1. Pear: It is an effective fruit for the treatment of constipation. Making it a part of your regular diet, can help you a lot.

2. Grapes: Since ages, grapes have proved to be a very effective natural remedy to cure constipation. Grapes contains sugar, cellulose and various organic acids that make them an ideal constipation healer. Besides cleaning your stomach, they also tone up the tissues of your stomach and the intestines.

3. Bael Fruit: It is regarded as the best fruit in curing this disorder. It cleans and tones up your intestinal space.

4. Guava: Guava provides you roughage that is very essential for the proper digestion of food. Roughage helps in the normal evacuation of your bowels.

5. Spinach: Spinach is the most vital food for your entire digestive system. The organic elements that are present in spinach cleanse, reconstruct and help the regeneration of the worn out tissues of your intestinal tract.

A simple diet surely helps you to keep away from constipation as it clears your stomach. A simple diet is one that consists of unrefined foods, like honey, bran, wholegrain cereals, lentils, fruits, green leafy vegetables and various milk products.

Apart from them there are also other home remedies that help in treating constipation. For instance, a glass of hot lime water, with added salt is very effective. It is also said that taking an overnight kept water in a copper container helps you considerably in this direction. Linseed is a useful product as it provides both roughage and lubrication to the stomach.

To get more information on home remedies, home remedies for commen ailments and home remedies for other problems visit http://www.newhomeremedies.com/

 

Finding A Solution To Crohns Constipation

 

Constipation is a symptom of Crohn’s disease but it’s not as common as diarrhea. It often occurs during a flare up, and is characterized by having a bowel movement less than three times within a week. Constipation can be very uncomfortable and cause bloating, straining and the feeling of a full bowel.

Constipation is quite common, and is something the average person experiences regardless if they suffer from an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other digestive condition. Constipation results when the colon absorbs too much water from the waste material or the colon’s muscle contracts slowly or is sluggish. This causes stool to dramatically slow down on its journey through the colon. The outcome of constipation is often dry, hard, pebble-like stool that is difficult to pass.

What causes constipation in Crohn’s sufferers?

Causes of constipation may differ depending on the person. For instance, while constipation may be a result from a poor diet in one person, it could be the result of taking medication in another. Therefore, in order to treat constipation, a Crohn’s sufferer should first learn about the most common causes of constipation and then assess their condition.

Poor Diet – A diet low in fiber and water consumption can lead to constipation. Eating too many dairy products such as milk and cheese, and foods high in starch such as potatoes, white pasta, white bread, and rice, can trigger constipation.

Medication – If you are taking medications to treat other Crohn’s symptoms, or another condition, one of the side effects of these drugs could be constipation. Furthermore, taking too many laxatives can actually have the opposite effect and result in constipation.

Stricture – Sometimes the cause of constipation in Crohn’s disease is due to a slight obstruction in the small intestine called a stricture. A stricture is an abnormal narrowing that occurs in a natural passage in the body, in the case of Crohn’s the small or large intestine. Strictures result from ulcerations and scar tissue. The obstruction in the intestine slows down digestion and creates problems – constipation.

How can you relieve constipation?

Up your insoluble fiber intake – There are two different types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Although both sources of fiber should be apart of your diet, if you are constipated, insoluble fiber is more beneficial to you because it helps to move food through your intestines. It is this fiber that encourages regular bowel movements. Excellent sources of insoluble fiber include dark green leafy vegetables, fruit skins, corn bran, and whole-wheat products.

When there is enough fiber in your diet, stools should be soft and passed without problem. If you have a problem naturally increasing your fiber intake, talk to your doctor about fiber supplements.

Drink plenty of water – Most people don’t drink enough water and this can lead to chronic dehydration and cause constipation. You need to make sure you are well hydrated by drinking the recommended eight, 8oz. glasses of water daily, and avoid caffeinated drinks that lead to dehydration.

Exercise – Exercise improves your overall health, reduces the risk of constipation and can even prevent it. By improving your body’s circulation and increasing your energy, you are providing your body with the power it needs to digest food.

Drugs – if your constipation is severe (lasts for more than 2 weeks) it’s time to consult your doctor about taking laxatives. Although these meds are available without prescription, it’s a good idea to seek the opinion of your doctor first. You should never abuse laxatives, as this will only cause further complications with your colon.

When you prevent and effectively treat constipation, you will avoid ugly complications that can arise from chronic constipation such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Sharon Dobson has an interest in Crohn's Disease. For further information on Crohn's Disease please visit http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/crohnsdisease.html or http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/blog/2006/12/28/finding-a-solution-to-crohns-constipation/ .

Treatment of Constipation

 

People who tend to ignore their body signals over time have lost the ability to recognize when it's time to move their bowels. This is common in constipation. In this situation, it may help to go to the bathroom at the same time every day when a bowel movement is most likely to occur, usually about thirty minutes after breakfast or after a cup of caffeinated coffee (caffeine is a stimulant of the gastrointestinal tract). Remember, however, that caffeine is a Flag Food for heartburn - again what helps an gastrointestinal problem may exacerbate another. Nicotine, while a recognized stimulant of the intestines, is not recommended as a treatment for constipation.

When you attempt to "retrain" your bowel, remember to take your time. Your mother may have told you to "do your business" quickly and get off the toilet, possibly to avoid hemorrhoids but probably because most of us grew up in a house with one bathroom. Today, even small houses usually have at least two bathrooms, so take your time. If breakfast time finds you at work, any large meal will do for bowel retraining. When food enters your stomach, it encourages the colon to contract. This impulse is transmitted by nerves that innervate the colon; certain hormones may also be involved. Some people, especially those with inflammatory bowel disease, have an exaggerated gastrocolic reflex - soon after they eat, they have to run to the bathroom. In bowel retraining for constipation, the gastrocolic reflex works in your favor in moving your bowels.

Drugs may also be used to treat constipation. Scores of laxatives on the market can provide a quick fix to relieve constipation. They fall into several different categories according to their mechanism of action. Bulk laxatives add volume and fluid to the stool. Metamucil, Efferyllium and Perdiem are psyllium seed laxatives that add non-irritating bulk and promote normal elimination. FiberCon, which has a similar bulking action, contains the fiber calcium polycarbophil. You may notice an increase in wind (flatulence) and stomach bloating when you are taking fiber supplements. This is normal and tends to settle down after a few months after the gut becomes used to the increase in fiber. Stool softeners are not laxatives but contain surface-active ingredients that keep soft for easy, natural passage. Magnesium salts like Milk of Magnesia work by increasing the fluid of the gastrointestinal tract. Dolculax is a stimulant laxative that acts directly on the colon to make it contract. Miralax is a prescription drug that works very well for some constipated individuals. Zelnorm can be used to treat garden variety constipation not related to irritable bowel disease. Lactulose is another prescription drug to treat constipation.

In general, it is always best to try the gentlest agents first. Over time, harsh laxatives can damage the bowel and ultimately make you dependent on laxatives to move your bowel. For most people, it is recommended to start with a bulk laxative or stool softener and, if necessary, adding Milk of Magnesia. Only in very difficult cases would a stimulant laxative or prescription drug be the treatment of choice for constipation.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Constipation

 

 

Finding a Solution to Constipation

 

Constipation is a symptom of Crohn?s disease but it?s not as common as diarrhea. It often occurs during a flare up, and is characterized by having a bowel movement less than three times within a week. Constipation can be very uncomfortable and cause bloating, straining and the feeling of a full bowel.

Constipation is quite common, and is something the average person experiences regardless if they suffer from an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other digestive condition. Constipation results when the colon absorbs too much water from the waste material or the colon?s muscle contracts slowly or is sluggish. This causes stool to dramatically slow down on its journey through the colon. The outcome of constipation is often dry, hard, pebble-like stool that is difficult to pass.

What causes constipation in Crohn?s sufferers?

Causes of constipation may differ depending on the person. For instance, while constipation may be a result from a poor diet in one person, it could be the result of taking medication in another. Therefore, in order to treat constipation, a Crohn?s sufferer should first learn about the most common causes of constipation and then assess their condition.

Poor Diet ? A diet low in fiber and water consumption can lead to constipation. Eating too many dairy products such as milk and cheese, and foods high in starch such as potatoes, white pasta, white bread, and rice, can trigger constipation.

Medication ? If you are taking medications to treat other Crohn?s symptoms, or another condition, one of the side effects of these drugs could be constipation. Furthermore, taking too many laxatives can actually have the opposite effect and result in constipation.

Stricture ? Sometimes the cause of constipation in Crohn?s disease is due to a slight obstruction in the small intestine called a stricture. A stricture is an abnormal narrowing that occurs in a natural passage in the body, in the case of Crohn?s the small or large intestine. Strictures result from ulcerations and scar tissue. The obstruction in the intestine slows down digestion and creates problems ? constipation.

How can you relieve constipation?

Up your insoluble fiber intake ? There are two different types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Although both sources of fiber should be apart of your diet, if you are constipated, insoluble fiber is more beneficial to you because it helps to move food through your intestines. It is this fiber that encourages regular bowel movements. Excellent sources of insoluble fiber include dark green leafy vegetables, fruit skins, corn bran, and whole-wheat products.

When there is enough fiber in your diet, stools should be soft and passed without problem. If you have a problem naturally increasing your fiber intake, talk to your doctor about fiber supplements.

Drink plenty of water ? Most people don?t drink enough water and this can lead to chronic dehydration and cause constipation. You need to make sure you are well hydrated by drinking the recommended eight, 8oz. glasses of water daily, and avoid caffeinated drinks that lead to dehydration.

Exercise ? Exercise improves your overall health, reduces the risk of constipation and can even prevent it. By improving your body?s circulation and increasing your energy, you are providing your body with the power it needs to digest food.

Drugs ? if your constipation is severe (lasts for more than 2 weeks) it?s time to consult your doctor about taking laxatives. Although these meds are available without prescription, it?s a good idea to seek the opinion of your doctor first. You should never abuse laxatives, as this will only cause further complications with your colon.

When you prevent and effectively treat constipation, you will avoid ugly complications that can arise from chronic constipation such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Sharon Dobson has an interest in Crohn's Disease. For further information on Crohn's Disease please visit Crohn's Disease or Crohn's Disease Symptoms .

 

Home Remedies For Dog Constipation

 

There comes a time in everyone's life when constipation rears its ugly head. The same holds true for dogs, unfortunately. Lack of exercise and proper diet can lead to bouts of constipation (sound familiar?). While you may seek a variety of ways to "eliminate" this problem in your own life, let's explore some home remedies for dog constipation which can be utilized in the eventuality it occurs in theirs.

As mentioned earlier, a proper diet and exercise are key components in ensuring your dog has the ability to move his bowels as often as necessary. House dogs usually need to be walked twice a day while maintaining a proper diet. If your dog becomes constipated, one method to alleviate this problem is by adding one to two teaspoons of bran to his meal. This allows for extra moisture in the stool.

Another method to soften the stool would be to add psyllium (Metamucil in the adult world) to his diet. Half a teaspoon twice a day, in addition to drinking plenty of water, will suffice. A third option would be mineral oil. This may be used in cases where there is a large build-up of hard stool. Two teaspoons, twice a day should be added to his meal, but for only a week. There are several other steps you can take to alleviate your dog's constipation. Keep his food moist by adding a bit of water. If your dog is getting on in years, add some raw meat and vegetables to his diet.

There are certain signs which can alert you to potential problems, and for which you can take immediate steps. Long hair on dogs can cause feces to become entangled; therefore, keep your dog properly groomed. Dogs tend to eat everything in sight, ensure no bones or other material has been ingested. Just as we experience constipation due to certain medications, dogs are no exception. Psychological stress is another indicator relating to constipation.

While it has been suggested that all breeds and dogs of any age are prone to constipation, there are other aspects which you may need to consider, and for which many dog owners are culpable. Never feed your dog from the dinner table. While you may indulge the dog with a few scraps here and there, you are contributing to his constipation.

Foods that contain flour, sugar, rice, dairy and high protein are the main source of the problem. Ice cream, cookies, bread, chocolate, or other unhealthy food items can cause your dog unnecessary pain. As mentioned earlier, a lack of fiber and dehydration are common causes. Another cause for concern would be a condition known as mega colon. This simply means your dog has an inflamed colon which prevents the discharge of feces.

The time to visit the vet will become evident when your dog's inability to defecate is hampered by a decreased appetite, passing blood in minimal amounts, and overall lethargy. Keep in mind, contributing to the overall health of your dog should be of the utmost importance. A dog's love is unconditional, therefore, he or she is totally dependent upon you to maintain a healthy and harmonious life. Be ever vigilant to any signs of stress and ensure his diet and exercise regimen is appropriate and on-going.

Concerned about your pet's health? Ethan recommends "boning up" on holistic pet health care right away at: http://www.NaturesHealthyPet.com

 

Treating Constipation Using Natural Products

Constipation is of two basic types, functional and organic constipation. Let us look at functional constipation and how to treat it using natural remedies.

What is Functional Constipation? Constipation, which is a result from not eating the right diet and the lack of drinking adequate fluids, is called Functional Constipation. The lifestyle that you lead is very important. The lifestyle that you follow must help to digest food through the colon and intestines properly. Eating the right food is very important. Here right food consists of all food that your body will accept and digest easily.

Constipation has many definitions, the simplest one being a condition in which the fecal matter stays for a long time in the colon before it is discharged out of the body by the rectum.

Constipation is not a disease and is a symptom. A gastrointestinal disease or irregular functioning of the colon is what leads to constipation. Constipation is caused by a wrong lifestyle and a wrong diet that one follows and is an indication that there is an imbalance in your system and your body is not working properly. The use of unnatural laxatives to correct constipation may lead to further problems. One must avoid drugstore laxatives as they are addictive. They can cause damage to the colon if used for a long period of time and they can cause side effects. The use of laxatives may make constipation more acute in the long run rather than eliminating it.

If you want to maintain a chemical balance in your body, the most important thing to do is to use natural products to get rid of constipation. Natural remedies include the use of herbs and foods that will strengthen your colon by giving it adequate nutrients and help restart your body?s natural peristaltic action.

While you are using natural remedies you must know that all remedies that you use will not be effective on you and may not work. You may have to use the trial and error method and try various different products and different dosages and see if it helps. If you give your body the right remedy that suits it, then the results will be positive. The best way to find out which remedy will be the most effective on you is to experiment with the various natural remedies available, and of course, the Internet is the best source to look up natural remedies that help constipation.

The most important thing that one must remember is that the remedies should not be used continuously for a long period of time. These remedies should be used for two to four days but not longer than two weeks and must be used only to clear constipation. The treatment may take a couple of weeks to help your system function properly. Many herbal combinations or herbal mixtures are available that can help improve the function of the colon and getting the bowels regularized.

An imbalance in the functioning of the body and the colon causes constipation. The use of natural remedies will help correct the functioning of the colon and rectify your constipation problem.

To learn more about remedies for constipation or cures for acid reflux visit http://www.remediesguide.com

 

Coconut Oil and Constipation

Are you suffering from constipation? If you are, you have probably tried numerous ways to find constipation relief. Constipation can be caused by numerous reasons including not eating enough fiber, not drinking enough liquids, a lack of exercise, certain medications, changes in lifestyle or routine, ignoring the urge to move your bowels, abusing laxatives, irritable bowel syndrome, pregnancy, traveling and other various reasons.

There are many products on the market which people purchase to try to find constipation relief. These include laxatives, stool softeners, Epsom salts, herbs and enemas. Many people are very disappointed in these products. Many of them only offer temporary relief of constipation. The good news is that there is a natural product that can prevent and alleviate constipation. It is coconut oil.

The latest news is that the coconut oil that is probably sitting in your kitchen cabinet can prevent and alleviate constipation. Since the studies have been released touting the many benefits of coconut oil people are testing it out and getting incredible results. Not only are they finding constipation relief, but many of them are losing weight, getting healthier and acquiring more energy.

The unique thing about coconut oil is that it is safe. It does not turn into fat like other oils. In fact, it can lower your cholesterol. People who use coconut oil not only reap the benefits of constipation relief, but they are also benefiting from the many other healthy benefits that are a byproduct of adding coconut oil to their diets.

Coconut oil stands next to mother's milk as being one of nature's highest sources of medium fatty acids. It raises the metabolism which can lead to weight loss. In addition, the fatty acids in coconut oil enhance the immune system and it helps to fight infections, bad bacteria, yeast invasion and diseases. To put it plainly, coconut oil acts as an anti-viral, anti-bacterial and an anti-fungal.

Coconuts have been held in high esteem in diverse cultures around the globe for thousands of years. It served not only as a source of food, but also as a medicine. Modern medicine has finally discovered what natives in other cultures have known for years - that Coconut and coconut oil can be used to treat a wide variety of health problems including the following:

1. Constipation
2. Bronchitis
3. Bruises
4. Coughs
5. Earaches
6. Influenza
7. Jaundice
8. Nausea
9. Scabies
10. Toothaches
11. Dropsy
12. Menstruation problems
13. Swelling and Inflammation
14. Ulcers
15. Urinary tract infections
16. Pneumonia
17. Gonorrhea
18. Herpes
19. Hepatitis C
20. Thrush
21. Diaper rash
22. Ringworm
23. Athlete's foot
24. Candidacies
25. Lice
26. Tapeworms and other parasites
27. Diabetes
28. Pancreatitis
29. Osteoporosis
30. Ulcerative colitis
31. Crohn's Disease
32. Hemorrhoids

If you are suffering from constipation you should supplement your daily diet with coconut oil. It is touted as being the "healthiest dietary oil on earth." Coconut oil is great for baking and cooking and it can easily be added to salads and dressing. If you want to get your internal machinery running again, oil it up! Coconut oil tastes great and it smells good. It is sure to be the easiest constipation cure that you have ever tried. Just think, it was sitting in the grocery store the entire time. Who would have ever suspected?

The Colon Cleanse & Constipation Resource Center is sponsored by Global Healing Center, Inc. The Resource Center's Web site features information on constipation, articles on colon cleansing, and research on the latest treatments. For more information, please visit The Colon Cleanse & Constipation Resource Center.

Coconut Oil and Constipation

Are you suffering from constipation? If you are, you have probably tried numerous ways to find constipation relief. Constipation can be caused by numerous reasons including not eating enough fiber, not drinking enough liquids, a lack of exercise, certain medications, changes in lifestyle or routine, ignoring the urge to move your bowels, abusing laxatives, irritable bowel syndrome, pregnancy, traveling and other various reasons.

There are many products on the market which people purchase to try to find constipation relief. These include laxatives, stool softeners, Epsom salts, herbs and enemas. Many people are very disappointed in these products. Many of them only offer temporary relief of constipation. The good news is that there is a natural product that can prevent and alleviate constipation. It is coconut oil.

The latest news is that the coconut oil that is probably sitting in your kitchen cabinet can prevent and alleviate constipation. Since the studies have been released touting the many benefits of coconut oil people are testing it out and getting incredible results. Not only are they finding constipation relief, but many of them are losing weight, getting healthier and acquiring more energy.

The unique thing about coconut oil is that it is safe. It does not turn into fat like other oils. In fact, it can lower your cholesterol. People who use coconut oil not only reap the benefits of constipation relief, but they are also benefiting from the many other healthy benefits that are a byproduct of adding coconut oil to their diets.

Coconut oil stands next to mother's milk as being one of nature's highest sources of medium fatty acids. It raises the metabolism which can lead to weight loss. In addition, the fatty acids in coconut oil enhance the immune system and it helps to fight infections, bad bacteria, yeast invasion and diseases. To put it plainly, coconut oil acts as an anti-viral, anti-bacterial and an anti-fungal.

Coconuts have been held in high esteem in diverse cultures around the globe for thousands of years. It served not only as a source of food, but also as a medicine. Modern medicine has finally discovered what natives in other cultures have known for years - that Coconut and coconut oil can be used to treat a wide variety of health problems including the following:

1. Constipation
2. Bronchitis
3. Bruises
4. Coughs
5. Earaches
6. Influenza
7. Jaundice
8. Nausea
9. Scabies
10. Toothaches
11. Dropsy
12. Menstruation problems
13. Swelling and Inflammation
14. Ulcers
15. Urinary tract infections
16. Pneumonia
17. Gonorrhea
18. Herpes
19. Hepatitis C
20. Thrush
21. Diaper rash
22. Ringworm
23. Athlete's foot
24. Candidacies
25. Lice
26. Tapeworms and other parasites
27. Diabetes
28. Pancreatitis
29. Osteoporosis
30. Ulcerative colitis
31. Crohn's Disease
32. Hemorrhoids

If you are suffering from constipation you should supplement your daily diet with coconut oil. It is touted as being the "healthiest dietary oil on earth." Coconut oil is great for baking and cooking and it can easily be added to salads and dressing. If you want to get your internal machinery running again, oil it up! Coconut oil tastes great and it smells good. It is sure to be the easiest constipation cure that you have ever tried. Just think, it was sitting in the grocery store the entire time. Who would have ever suspected?

The Colon Cleanse & Constipation Resource Center is sponsored by Global Healing Center, Inc. The Resource Center's Web site features information on constipation, articles on colon cleansing, and research on the latest treatments. For more information, please visit The Colon Cleanse & Constipation Resource Center.

Loniten Constipation

Loniten users have found that one of the associated side effects of use of this medicine is that they can become constipated during their treatment. Because Loniten can cause constipation, it's important to treat for constipation while taking this medication.

One of the main factors of this medication is blood pressure. High blood pressure is extremely dangerous to your health so taking medication to lower your blood pressure is important. While constipation is uncomfortable, it can be managed and tolerated when the benefits are life saving. Because this medication is generally not a short-term medication, it's also possible that users will face on-going problems with Loniten related side effects. While this can be a bit frustrating, again, the benefits of this medication make it worthwhile to find ways to manage the side effects.

Your doctor may recommend that you take a laxative while you are taking Loniten. Using harsh laxatives will not only be rough on your system but can affect your body's ability to absorb nutrients and even medications so it's important to treat your constipation in such a way that relieves you of the symptoms and allows you to have regular bowel movements without lowering the effectiveness of any medication you are taking. Over the counter laxatives can not only harshly induce bowel movements but they can have a negative impact on your overall health, should they be used long term.

Loniten, also known as Minoxidil was initially used as a blood pressure lowering medication. This drug is a vasodilator drug, which means that it helps to open (or dilate) the blood vessels. One of the positive side effects of Loniten that was discovered was that it caused excessive hair growth on people who were taking it. This was considered serendipity for those suffering from hair loss or male pattern baldness and it resulted in Loniten being used as a treatment for baldness. Many people began taking Minoxidil to treat baldness. While their hair grew and their blood pressure was lowered, they did have to face a few unwanted side effects.

Those using Loniten for hair loss need to closely monitor their blood pressure due to the lowering effect of the medication. Anyone who doesn't have high blood pressure but is taking this product for hair growth could take a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Loniten can also blur your vision or cause acne and headaches. Sometimes these effects are simply a result of your dose of Loniten or Minoxidil being too high. Whether you're using Loniten for blood pressure or Minoxidil for hair loss, be sure to proactively work to ensure that you can continue to have regular bowel movements and stay under the care of a physician.

Taking extra fiber and drinking plenty of water will help. Taking a bulk laxative such as Psyllium can also be beneficial when taking any medications that slow down your bowel functions as well as eating fiber rich foods.

Loniten or Minoxidil users can use a product called Oxy Powder safely while they are medicated. Oxy Powder promotes regular bowel activity, which can be very beneficial when taking medication that can cause constipation. It also works in harmony with your body's healthy bacteria (or flora) so that your system doesn't face the harsh effects of loss of healthy bacterium. Many people who are on medications that cause constipation want the benefits of their medication, and in some cases it's vital for their survival. Constipation can completely drain you of energy and leave you feeling bloated, cramped and sluggish. Using a product like Oxy Powder when taking a medication with this side effect can help you function without contraindicating your medicine and without having a harsh effect on your body.

Many Oxy Powder users rave about how well it works in relieving constipation, bloating and about the fact that it doesn't chain you to your toilet like some laxatives or bulky food will. Oxy Powder gradually works over a twelve-hour period so that you aren't rushing to the bathroom the moment that you take it. The benefits to using this product go above and beyond simply relieving you from Loniten induced constipation. This product is even used as a colon cleanser. It can have a positive impact on your overall health.

Whether you are taking Loniten or Minoxidil for blood pressure or for hair loss, you want to ensure that your bowels are running at peak efficiency. Constipation not only makes you miserable but also on a long-term basis will have negative health impacts. Because these medications are not short-term products, rather something that only works if they are being consistently taken, you will likely need to manage your constipation on an on-going basis. Using a harsh product long term can have some ill effects on your health. Using a natural and proven product that not only cleanses your bowels but has a positive impact on your colon health makes sense.

The Colon Cleanse & Constipation Resource Center is sponsored by Global Healing Center, Inc. The Resource Center's Web site features information on constipation, articles on colon cleansing, and research on the latest treatments. For more information, please visit The Colon Cleanse & Constipation Resource Center