For quit a few of us, every once and a while we might experience constipation, but if it happens too frequently there is something inheriently wrong with the digestive system. So let's find out what's going on here. Ok, you eat the food, the food goes down your esophagus into the stomach where it is worked over by peptic acid then empties into the small intestine via the pyloric sphincter where the nutrients and fluid is absorbed, then into the large intestine where it is made into a solid and down to the rectum where it awaits the call of nature. Assuming that the process works without a hitch, you're fine. But, what if, lets say- you start to have infrequent bowel movements, straining or painful movements or have a bloated feeling. Then mainly two things are happening: 1. The bowel is taking out too much fluid and is leaving feces dry and hard making it more difficult to move through the track. 2. The muscles in the colon tighten and relax too slowly so that the stool can move normally. There may be other causes so if symptoms present themselves worst than the two I've mentioned, it's time for primary care. (Scheduled visits to your Doc. should be apart of your plan anyway.)
The layman solutions to constipation?
Laxatives;
There is a lot of this stuff around, some work differently than others. Consulting with your doctor is the best avenue for selection.
Fiber Supplements;
These draw water into the stool and cause the bowl to contract moving the stool along. You've gotta drink plenty of water with this one. (I do this one myself 2 or 3 times a week.) I ain't tak'in no chances at my age!
Stimulant Laxatives;
This stuff triggers muscle contractions to move stool along. This is another one that should be doctor recommended.
Lubricants;
Coats the stool making it easier to move the stool along.
So there you have it, some causes some solutions and the next time that you talk to your primary care giver you'll have a reasonable response to questions your problems and concerns, at least about your digestive system.
It's time for a lifestyle change. You can do so much to improve your health if you'd just change to a healthy diet, exercise and some preventive maintenance. Do it!
