TAG | Bowel Movements
Constipated Again? Mother Nature to the Rescue
02/12/10 0 Comments | Posted by psapio in Herbal Cleansing
Millions of people struggle every day with constipation, but few realize that over time this condition can lead to even more serious health problems. Constipation slows down food transit time, allowing undigested food to sit and ferment in the colon. As a result, harmful toxins are released into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall. This can lead to a form of self-poisoning called autointoxication, which may in turn cause everything from headaches to immune disorders.
Ordinarily, a combination of factors ultimately results in constipation, including poor diet and nutrition (too many processed foods and refined sugars), a lack of dietary fiber, a lack of essential fatty acids, too little exercise, the use of certain medications (both prescription and over-the-counter), changes in daily routine, and not setting aside time to eliminate regularly. Fortunately, there are safe and effective natural solutions for relieving occasional constipation and restoring regularity.
All-natural herbal laxatives provide fast-acting relief for a constipated colon, with traditionally used ingredients such as cape aloe and rhubarb to stimulate bowel contractions, as well as magnesium to hydrate the stool and soothing herbs such as marshmallow and slippery elm to help lubricate the colon.
Once healthy bowel function is restored, maintaining regularity is essential. This begins with following a high-fiber diet, since fiber adds necessary bulk to the diet in order to help move food through the intestines and absorb and eliminate toxins. A daily Omega oil supplement is also recommended to keep the colon lubricated and ease elimination. Finally, taking a daily probiotic is the key to maintaining a balanced intestinal environment and promoting regular, healthy bowel movements.
Kids and Constipation: Encouraging Healthy Bowel Habits
02/4/10 0 Comments | Posted by psapio in Kids Health
We do our best to safeguard our kids from sniffles and sneezes, but what about a constipated colon? Constipation among children is more common than you might think, and most of the time the causes are the same as those for adults—things like eating too little fiber, not drinking enough fluids, taking certain medications, a change in daily routine, or simply not setting aside enough time to go to the bathroom.
Teaching kids early about the importance of good bowel health is the first step toward helping prevent occasional constipation, and it begins with making sure they eat plenty of fiber. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps to strengthen the colon muscles to ensure healthy bowel movements. It also helps absorb and eliminate harmful toxins in the gut. For picky eaters, a natural fiber supplement may be the best option.
In addition to eating more fiber, a diet rich in Omega oils can help keep the colon lubricated to ease elimination and avoid straining. A daily probiotic is also recommended to maintain a healthy bacteria balance in the intestines and promote regular, healthy bowel movements. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also essential for keeping stools hydrated and thus easier to pass. Finally, make sure kids know the importance of good bowel health, and encourage them to take their time on the toilet and avoid straining or pushing.
When constipation does strike, a natural herbal laxative made with traditionally used ingredients such as flax fiber, fig, prune and peach leaf can help get things moving again and ease abdominal discomfort. Probiotics may also be included for additional bowel support.