Constipation

Most professionals believe that constipation is usually caused by the slow digestion of food through the intestines - but most likely the colon. When the colon's muscle contractions become listless, the stool does not move quickly enough through the colon.

Constipation comes in a variety of forms, for some people it means an unusual hardening of the stool, which causes straining and bloating; for other people it may mean irregular bowel movements, sometimes only three or four a week.

Causes of Constipation

Constipation is an indicator, not a disease. Constipation is most likely caused by a poor diet that does not contain enough fiber, medications, dehydration, irritable bowel syndrome or problems with your intestines not working properly.

Many people don't think to associate their constipation with the medications they are taking. Some of the medications that can cause constipation are blood pressure medications, antidepressants, antacids that contain aluminum and calcium, iron supplements and narcotic pain medications.

Constipation Remedies

There are an array of constipation remedies but your doctor will first have to figure out the severity of your constipation and how long you have been suffering from it. The most typical treatment is a change of diet.

Anti Constipation Diet

Food that does not contain enough fiber, which includes meats, dairy and many processed foods, will be replaced with fiber-rich foods such as beans, whole grain cereals, and fresh fruits and vegetables such as asparagus and carrots. You don't have to completely eliminate your meat or dairy intake but you should consider a healthier diet.

Lifestyle Changes

You may also be asked to change your lifestyle; get more exercise, drink more water and consume fruit and vegetable juices instead of sodas and other forms of liquid that have no nutritional value.

Constipation: Final Word

There are other treatments that involve laxatives and even some forms of surgery for those that are enduring severe and prolonged symptoms of constipation. The most important thing you can do if you are suffering from constipation is to change your diet and seek help from your doctor.

Take the FIRST step to cleaning your colon

Cleansing your colon starts with eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water. This helps keep you regular and puts your body back on track.

But your body can't do it all.

When you're ready to cleanse your body of toxins and undigested food, then you're ready to take the next step in colon cleansing. Keep in mind that colon cleansing isn't for everyone – only for those who want optimal health.