Friday, December 21, 2007

Oils Good For Constipation

Some oils good for constipation include pumpkin seed oil, sesame seed oil, peanut oil and walnut oil. While a daily spoonful of oil, e.g. sesame oil mixed in warm water, forms a simple, effective home remedy for constipation, this article introduces a way you can use seeds (containing some of the above oils) to make a paste that you can store and eat when necessary.

Remedy Containing Oils Good for Constipation

Pine Seed and Walnut Paste

Ingredients

Raw pine seeds (500 grams), raw walnut kernels (500 grams), candied honey (250 grams).

Method

1. Crush the pine seeds and walnut kernels in a mortar and pestle.

2. Place the seeds/kernels in a bowl and mix in the honey to form a paste.

3. Steam the paste till the seeds are cooked.

4. When cool, store in a sealed jar in the fridge.

Dose

Take one tablespoon of paste before breakfast and again before bed. Consume with a small glass of warm-hot (NOT cold) water if you wish. Continue daily till your bowels return to normal.

This paste contains just two oils good for constipation - I have written another Ezinearticles.com article about a similar paste made from pumpkin and sesame seeds, for the same purpose of lubricating your intestines to relieve constipation.

http://chinese-holistic-health-exercises.com/abdominal-exercises.html

Matthew Scott is a professionally trained Chinese medicine practitioner from Australia, living in China since 2000. His website http://chinese-holistic-health-exercises.com offers classic, time-tested exercises & techniques to stretch, strengthen, energize, relax, ease pain and improve overall health.
 

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Thursday, December 13, 2007

The Missing Link Between Acne, Insulin Resistance and Constipation

Among homeopathic treatments for acne, we find alleviating constipation. Yet presently, no medical studies have made the direct link between bowel regularity and acne. Nevertheless, there is a clear relationship between a hormonal imbalance called ?insulin resistance? and acne. Moreover, according to the American Dietetic Association, regularity is great for mitigating acne because regular bowel movements can reduce the chances of developing insulin resistance.

Insulin Resistance & Acne
The pancreas secretes the hormone insulin. The body needs insulin to access the body?s primary energy source- the blood sugar glucose. Insulin binds to key receptors in the blood in order to release glucose as the body requires more energy.

Insulin resistance happens when the normal amount of insulin the pancreas secretes proves insufficient to signal the release of glucose. So, to compensate, the pancreas secretes more insulin in order to free the needed glucose.

Insulin Resistance in PCOS
Insulin resistance, acne, excessive hair and obesity are just a few of the traits that characterize the endocrine disease called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Substantial research has linked a rise in circulating androgens in PCOS patients to insulin resistance.

An excess amount of the hormone androgen in women promotes facial hair growth and can lead to infertility. Moreover surplus androgen increases facial oil secretion. This extra oil can cause more clogged pores and acne.

Medical Treatment for Insulin Resistance
Treatments for PCOS include the drug metformin. A study published in Gynecological Endocrinology found that treating women with metformin reduced the symptoms of PCOS because the treatment lowered the patients? fasting blood sugar level and testosterone levels. Testosterone is a member of the androgen family and can likewise lead to acne lesions.

Natural Treatment for Insulin Resistance
Besides using drugs to control insulin levels, the American Dietetic Association recommends a fiber-rich and therefore constipation preventing diet to help normalize the blood glucose and insulin levels.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends consuming 31 grams of fiber per day. Getting this amount of fiber would take enjoying roughly one of the following groups of fruits and vegetables:

    7 raw avocados

    13 fresh bananas

    7 cups of blueberries

    9 small apples

    31 baked potatoes

    15 red peppers

    3 cups of cooked lentils

Surprisingly, regardless of all the health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables, the Food and Drug Administration still reports that Americans are not eating enough of Nature?s harvest.

In short, insulin resistance creates an upsurge in androgen hormone. And so, staying constipation free reduces the likelihood of developing insulin resistance and having more circulating hormones that can provoke an acne outbreak.

Whatever your acne facial regime involves, make certain to enjoy a few constipation-preventing foods like oat bran, spinach or apples everyday.

Sources:
Kazerooni, T and M Dehghan-Kooshkghazi. Effects of metformin therapy on hyperandrogenism in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Gynecological Endocrinology; February 1, 2003, vol 17, no 1, pp 51-56.

United States Department of Agriculture. Diet and Health: Food Consumption and Nutrient Intake Tables. August 17, 2004

Wijeyaratne, Chandrika N, Adam H Balen, Julian H Barth, Paul E Belchetz. Clinical manifestations and insulin resistance (IR) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among South Asians and Caucasians: is there a difference? Clinical Endocrinology; September 2002, vol 57, no 3, pp 343-350.

Naweko Nicole Dial San-Joyz founded Noixia, a San Diego based research firm dedicated to helping people intelligently, safely and affordably enhance their image by offering custom skin solutions to people with acne scars on the face and body. San-Joyz She has appeared on radio stations, in newspapers and on TV shows across the United States promoting beauty through health consciousness. Anyone seeking to enhance their image and remove acne scarring can find custom, clinically proven solutions at Noixia.com.

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Monday, November 5, 2007

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 .
 

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Sunday, November 4, 2007

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
 

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Monday, September 17, 2007

How to Massage Your Colon for Constipation Relief

Massage of the abdominal area is a great way to tone the muscles in your colon area. If done regularly, this massage will strengthen your colon walls and help to loosen stagnant chime that is causing constipation. If you are trying to relieve constipation, then you can massage for a week or two until you get past your constipation. Regular massaging can be of great benefit to your colon and to your surrounding organs.

You can do this colon massage with oil as you lie in your bed or, as I do, in the shower where I use a soap solution to slide my hand over my abdomen with relative easy.

Start on the right side down near your appendix. Start with small circular or short movements, in one direction, and move upward toward your rib cage. This is the direction your fecal matter travels in your colon. If you have long fingernails, you may have a problem doing this massage.

You can apply pressure in your massages. You may want to start gently and increase your pressure in subsequent days.

When you start your circular massage near your appendix, you are also strengthening your ileocecal valve. In the shower, everyday, I massage this spot to strengthen and tone my ileocecal valve. This one way valve is the gateway between your small intestine and your colon. You want a strong ileocecal valve so fecal matter moves into your colon it does not move backward into the small intestine.

Massaging near the appendix also helps to move any stagnant fecal matter that is stuck there. Stagnant fecal matter in the appendix can lead to bacteria build up and inflammation.

So, massage your ileocecal value every day in the shower or with oil just before getting out of bed for 1-minute or so.

Now, once you?ve reached the rib cage, move to the left to the outer point of the left rib cage. Now move downward a good length toward your groin.

Take 2-3 minutes to do this massage and you will get constipation relief and you will start to improve your overall feeling of well being.

As you massage your colon area, notice if you find areas that have a slight pain or a lot of pain. With areas that have a slight pain, you can work these areas and probably reduce the pain with daily massages.

With areas of deep pain, in the colon area, do not continue the massage. Consider consulting with a doctor, if the pain persists.

Remember to move your hands in one direction in short strokes, upward, then to the left, then downward. Massage your ileocecal valve everyday and this will stimulate you appendix area.

These massages will help to loosen and move fecal matter that is stagnant in your colon. Combine this massage with other constipation remedies and this should help you get constipation relief.

Rudy Silva is a Natural Nutritionist. For more excellent tips and information on constipation go to: http://www.stop-constipation.com or at http://www.constipationcured.info

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Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Probiotics for constipation

Question : My sister, 20, has had difficulty moving her bowels since childhood. She usually does so once a week. The excreta is large and hard, resulting in pain. She takes fruit and vegetables daily.

Answer : Constipation is characterised by difficulty in passing stool or an absence of the urge to eliminate. In general, if the bowel movement is less than three times in a week or the bowel movement is regular but the stool is hard or difficult to pass, it is defined as constipation.

Symptoms include bloating, loss of appetite, mild nausea, indigestion, headache, coated tongue, tiredness and bad breath. Chronic constipation can affect one's health as waste remains in the intestines for excessive periods, causing toxins to be absorbed by the body.

Constipation is the common ailment that happens in all age groups. The underlying causes include lack of dietary fibre, high intake of refined carbohydrate, inadequate fluid intake, sedentary lifestyle and the unnecessary usage of laxatives.

Your sister may supplement her diet with probiotics which are friendly bacteria that play a role in preventing the growth of undesirable microorganisms, including candida yeast and bacteria that cause diseases by maintaining healthy intestinal flora necessary for the proper digestion and assimilation of food.

Increase intake of whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruit which are rich in fibre. Dark green leafy vegetables, papaya, prunes, wheat bran, oat bran and psyllium husks are all the effective natu- ral sources that enhance bowel movement.

Limit the intake of refined and processed foods which have been stripped of their fibre content. Foods high in sugar and fats tend to stay in the body for a longer period of time and slow down the bowel transit rate.

Drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Two glasses of water are recommended after each serving of fibre. This helps to soften the stool and make the stool bulky and easy to move through the gastrointestinal tract.

www.medical-explorer.com

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Thursday, August 30, 2007

Constipation remedy using apples and other juices

Here are two constipation remedies that you can use for a mild case of constipation and for a chronic case of constipation.



Apple and Pear Juice

If you have a mild case of constipation, you can use this remedy to get results.

Prepare equal amounts of fresh apple and pear juice. Drink this combination when you first wake up and one hour before bedtime.

Juice the pears that are slightly hard. If the pear is ripe, it is best to blend it whole with apple juice to create a thick drink. Using the whole pear will give you additional fiber. Just remove the seeds but do not peel the organic type.

Pears have minerals, vitamins, and chemicals that help to clean out your colon, kidney and to regenerate your blood cells.

Apple Juice and Prune Juice

Heres a constipation remedy that you can use if you have chronic constipation. In addition to just drinking apple juice, you can accelerate your peristaltic action with prune juice.

Heres how to do it.

If you have a juicer you can make fresh apple juice and drink 3-4 glasses a day. You can also drink store-bought apple juice but try to get fresh squeezed and not the type that has been flash pasteurized or pasteurized. If you can find fresh apple juice then use flash pasteurized.

Buy your juice in glass containers if possible.

Plastic containers are processed using solvents that stay in the container walls and gradually outgas into the apple juice. This out gassing is more severe when plastic containers are stored in hot places.

To speed up the laxative effects of apple juice, take the following combination first thing in the morning before you have breakfast,

Drink 2-3 cups of prune juice.
After hour, drink one cup of apple juice
Then, 1-hour later drink another cup of apple juice.

I usually buy my prune juice in a bottle and fresh squeeze my apple juice.

Be prepared to head for the bathroom after you drink your prune juice and your first glass of apple juice. You may need to head to the bathroom soon after you drink prune juice, everyone is different. I have used this combination and have recommended it to my clients and have had good results.

Prune juice by itself is good for constipation. It is a safe, gentle and an effective laxative. Drink a cup in the morning and a cup in the evening. Prune juice contain the substance dihydrophenylisatin, which is responsible for the laxative action. Prunes are also high in iron and are a great supplement if you are anemic or low on iron.

If you add prune juice to your diet, do not drink as much of it as you would when you have constipation. Drink glass in the morning and perhaps glass in the evening.



About the author:
Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid ebooks. For information on constipation and other remedy ebooks go to: http://www.stop-constipation.comSee some of his newsletters at: http://www.natural-remedies-thatwork.com/archive.html

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