Constipation is one of the most
common gastrointestinal complaints in the world. Those reporting constipation
most often are women and adults ages 65 and older.
How it is defined the normal bowel
movement?
The following bowel habits are
considered as normal;
- Bowel movement once a day
- Bowel movement thrice a day
- Bowel movement once in every three days
According to Ayurvedic medicine, stool [Purisha] is very important since it is a component of trimala [three waste products] a main factor that contributes to decide person’s health. Constipation occurs when there’s a derangement of mainly vata. The clinical definition of constipation is having any two of the following symptoms for at least 12 weeks-not always consecutive-in the previous 12 months:
 |
| Image credit http://gbengaadebayo.com/preventing-constipation/ |
·
lumpy or hard stool
·
sensation of incomplete evacuation
·
sensation of anorectal blockage/obstruction
·
fewer than three bowel movements per week
Constipation is a symptom rather than a disease. There are several causes for the constipation. Mainly; dietary habits, impaired bowel movements, suppression of urge of defecation and lower GIT diseases like, haemorrhoids, fissures, anal stenosis etc. People who ignore the urge to have a bowel movement may eventually stop feeling the need to have one, which can lead to constipation. Some people delay having a bowel movement because they do not want to use toilets outside the home. Others ignore the urge because of emotional stress or because they are too busy. Children may postpone having a bowel movement because of stressful toilet training or because they do not want to interrupt their play.
Constipation occurs when the colon
absorbs too much water or if the colon's muscle contractions are slow or
sluggish, causing the stool to move through the colon too slowly. As a result,
stools can become hard and dry. Common causes of constipation are;
- Low fiber in the diet
- Lack of physical activity (especially in the elderly)
- Medications: pain killers (especially narcotics), antacids that contain aluminum and calcium, hypertension medications (calcium channel blockers), iron supplements etc.
- Changes in life or routine such as pregnancy, aging, and travel
- Abuse of laxatives- flushing out of the body important vitamins, minerals and especially the friendly bacteria known as flora.
- Dehydration
There some
specific diseases that cause constipation
including neurological disorders, metabolic and endocrine disorders, and systemic
conditions that affect organ systems. These disorders can slow the movement of
stool through the colon, rectum, or anus.
Neurological diseases
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson's disease
- Chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injuries
Metabolic and endocrine conditions
- Diabetes
- Uremia
- Hypocalcaemia
- Hypothyroidism
How to prevent constipation?
Add plenty of fruits, vegetables and
salads in your diet. Chew food thoroughly and eat only when hungry. High-fiber
foods include beans, whole grains and bran cereals, fresh fruits, and
vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and carrots are good
for constipated people. For people prone to constipation, limiting foods that
have little or no fiber, such as ice cream, cheese, meat, and processed foods,
is also important.
Fiber-both soluble and insoluble-is
the part of fruits, vegetables, and grains that the body cannot digest. Soluble
fiber dissolves easily in water and takes on a soft, gel-like texture in the
intestines. Insoluble fiber passes through the intestines almost unchanged. The
bulk and soft texture of fiber help prevent hard, dry stools that is difficult
to pass. Both children and adults often eat too many refined and processed
foods from which the natural fiber has been removed. A low-fiber diet also
plays a key role in constipation among older adults, who may lose interest in
eating and choose foods that are quick to make or buy, such as fast foods, or
prepared foods, both of which are usually low in fiber. Also, difficulties with
chewing or swallowing may cause older people to eat soft foods that are
processed and low in fiber.
Other changes that may help treat
and prevent constipation include drinking enough water and other liquids, such
as fruit and vegetable juices and clear soups, so as not to become dehydrated,
engaging in daily exercise, and reserving enough time to have a bowel movement.
In addition, the urge to have a bowel movement should not be ignored.
Liquids add fluid to the colon and
bulk to stools, making bowel movements softer and easier to pass. People who
have problems with constipation should try to drink liquids every day. However,
liquids that contain caffeine, such as coffee and cola drinks will worsen one's
symptoms by causing dehydration. Alcohol is another beverage that causes
dehydration. It is important to drink fluids that hydrate the body, especially
when consuming caffeine containing drinks or alcoholic beverages.
Herbal Remedies for constipation
 |
| Image credit http://www.health-reply.com/constipation-natural-remedies/ |
- Infusion of Triphala powder [5g in 120 ml warm water] twice a day.
- Ripe bael fruit is regarded as best of all laxatives. It cleans and tones up the intestines and a very effective home remedy for constipation.
- One or two teaspoons of aloe gel can be taken twice a day.
You can find an interesting article about elimination and some good herbal
medicines for constipation here;
http://www.kitchendoctor.com/midlife_tuneup/colon_cleanse.php
http://www.kitchendoctor.com/midlife_tuneup/colon_cleanse.php
May all beings be healthy!
Dr. Indunil Weerarathne
