Let’s face it, this is a subject most of us would rather not discuss until it can no longer be avoided. However, recent surveys indicate that constipation is the most common digestive complaint, resulting in about 2 million annual visits to the doctor. An additional 725 million dollars are spent each year on over-the-counter laxatives by those who don’t seek medical treatment. While many accept occasional constipation as a part of everyday life, it is actually a very serious condition that can lead to deteriorating health.
Poor diet is one of the most common causes. The typical standard American diet (or SAD) consists largely of processed foods and refined sugars and starches. These high-fat, high-sugar foods lack the fiber and essential fatty acids necessary for proper bowel maintenance.
Other contributing factors include a lack of exercise (specifically, cardiovascular exercise), the use of certain medications such as anti-depressants, antihistamines, high blood pressure and high cholesterol drugs, antacids and diuretics. Changes in routine, stress (emotional or physical), and environmental influences can also be factors.
So, how can you relieve constipation? It might be easier than you think!
1. Hydration is key. Drink plenty of water. How can you tell? Here’s a good rule of thumb: Take your body weight and divide by two. Now substitute ounces for pounds. (For instance, if your weight is 150 pounds, you should drink at least 75 ounces of water each day.)
2. Supplementation. Here’s a helpful way to remember:
H – High fiber
O – Oils (omegas, Borage and flaxseed, to name a few.)
P – Probiotics
E – Enzymes that aid digestion
3. Lifestyle changes. Eat more fruits and veggies. Exercise daily at a level consistent with your baseline and goals. Create or maintain bathroom time. And, employ the correct position when eliminating by resting your feet on a small platform of 8 to 10 inches. This can be done by simply turning a flat trash bin on its side or purchasing a small step stool.
4. Try colon Hydrotherapy. In contrast to a traditional enema, colon hydrotherapy is effective for cleansing the full length of the large intestine, hydrating the body and toning the colon muscle to promote healthy elimination.
Remember, a complete bowel movement should take place as a result of every meal eaten. Once proper bowel function is achieved, it’s much easier to maintain a strong foundation for optimal health.
Stay happy and healthy!
Quinn
*This article is not intended to give health advice. Please consult your doctor before any change in diet, supplements or exercise.
Warm Springs Wellness Center:
A Healthy Resource for Middle Tennessee
Warm Springs Wellness Center is owned and operated by Quinn Raines, a Registered Nurse who has dedicated her life to safe, compassionate, clinically effective care. She is also an I-ACT certified Colon Hydro-therapist and Colon Hydro-therapy instructor, one of the only hydro-therapists to achieve this level of certification in the state of Tennessee.
With more than a decade of experience as an RN and Clinical Supervisor in some of the country’s most prestigious hospitals, Quinn subscribes to a balanced, responsible approach to health and wellness: