Excuse the pun, constipation is often the butt of many jokes. For the sufferer it is no laughing matter and can be quite distressing both physically and mentally. Those with the affliction may also not like to talk about it, even with their health care specialist because they are embarrassed. By identifying some of the most frequent causes, irregular bowel movements can quite easily be fixed. Below are some of the reasons why this may occur and a few easy remedies.
One of the most frequent causes of constipation lies in a diet that is too low in fiber. In this day and age, most diets consist of foodstuffs that are highly refined and processed. We need to make sure that we get enough fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber. Good examples are spinach; potatoes with their skin on; beans; mushrooms and apples. Also, whenever you can, select whole wheat or whole grain rice; pasta or bread.
Dehydration can also produce constipation. If our fluid intake is too low, too much water is reabsorbed from the feces causing hard stools that may be difficult to pass. Drinking eight glasses of water a day is ideal for health and can help prevent irregular bowel movements. Warm liquids, such as hot lemon water, may also provide some relief. There are also herbal teas for easing constipation.
If your lifestyle is too sedentary, you may also find yourself suffering from this complication. Try to fit a half hour of aerobic exercise in a couple of times a week. Take a brisk walk; or go for a swim or a cycle to help galvanize the digestive tract into action.
Constipation is very common during pregnancy. In order to prepare itself for childbirth, the body releases hormones which relax all the smooth muscles. This includes the muscles in the intestines. Also, many pregnant women suffer an iron deficiency and the supplements prescribed for this may worsen the difficulty with passing stools. Women with this problem are advised to eat a healthy diet that is high in fiber; to drink lots of water and to follow an exercise regime approved by their doctor.
This condition can have many causes other than those identified above. It may be a stressful or overly-busy lifestyle; changes in lifestyle or the side effect of some medications. Stool softening foods such as prunes or prune juice may also help. If none of these are effective, it may be advisable to visit your doctor and request a prescription for a mild laxative. Note that it is always advisable to visit a physician if the condition occurs suddenly; is severe (one bowel movement per week or less); does not improve after gentle treatment or occurs in conjunction with other symptoms, for example weight loss.
Constipation is medically defined as less than three bowel movements a week. The average should be one bowel movement a day and yet this only true for about 50% of people! In other words, almost everybody will suffer from this at one point or another. Such a common problem has many common and simple cures. Try a few of those mentioned above to get irregular bowel movements regular again!
Find a list of the causes of bowel conditions and more information about an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome on our site, right now.
Irregular Bowel Movements: A Simple Guide
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