Simple Steps To A Better Movement

Between the late 1800s and the beginning of the twentieth century, the U.S. and Britian shared the dubious distinction of the world's "most constipated nation." Well, we a bit more enlightened today as we know that being constipated can lead to dangerous toxins being released back into the system, which can comprimise organ systems. In the worse-case scenario, it could lead to sepis or autointoxication.

Here are a few simple steps to ensure you remain regular.

1) Have an idea of what regular really is. There was a time when I really thought moving bowels once or twice per week was regular. However, today, regular means something close to a 1:1 ratio of meals and movements. According to medical experts, factors that may result in constipation include; pregnancy, IBS, and Parkinson's. The good news however is that most causes are lifestyle-related.

2) This brings us to the question of diet. A healthy well-balanced diet relying upon fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans can be very helpful in preventing constipation. Also, every diet should begin with proper water intake of around eight glasses daily. You should limit the intake of alcohol and caffeinated drinks.

3) Get and stay active. Exercise promotes muscle movement in the colon. I recommend 60 minutes of moderate aerobic activity six days a week such as walking.

4) Doctor-prescribed medications can and do have an effect on constipation. Things such as antidepressants, painkillers, and even antacids, which contain aluminum. Even calcium and iron supplements can lead to constipation. Consult you doctor for alternatives.

5) Some natural approaches include rhubarb root, used in Chinese medicine. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, the root causes less cramping than stimulant laxatives such as senna and cascara sagrada. Avoid over-using rhubarb due to the risk of dependency.