| Constipation affects over 4 million people in the United States on a regular basis. Research shows that most of us retain food wastes and toxins too long in the colon. This is usually due to a low fiber diet and results in hard, difficult to pass stools. This situation can lead to serious health problems. Consider the list: cancer of both the colon and the bowel, constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, varicose veins and hiatal hernia, just to name a few. The standard American diet takes three full days to pass from the dinner table to the bowel movement. In countries whose food passage is 24 hours or less these diseases are rare.
The most common causes of constipation are a low fiber diet, lack of fluid consumption and too little physical activity. Other causes are:
Advanced age
Certain prescription drugs
Antacids, diuretics, iron tablets and muscle relaxants
Colon disorders and abnormalities
Nerve disorders affecting bowel movement
Prolonged bed rest
Disorders of the Thyroid or Pituitary glands
Metabolic disorders such as Diabetes or Kidney disease |
Constipation will usually respond to high fiber food, plentiful fluid consumption and increased physical activity. Even if you eat high fiber food, you may still need help occasionally to achieve a regular bowel movement. When your colon is sluggish, it is wise to choose natural laxatives rather than chemical laxatives. Natural laxatives from Aloe Vera provide gentle relief without the feeling of urgency.
Establishing regular bowel movement is important to your health. The colon and bowel are the depository for all waste material after food nutrients have been extracted. The body normally excretes waste in 18 to 24 hours. Harmful toxins can form after this period. Daily bowel movements promote good colon health. Remember to exercise, drink plenty of fluids and eat high fiber food. When these efforts don't bring results, natural laxatives can be a godsend for those who need help. |