Chronic Constipation? These could be the reasons

Did you know that around 22 percent of the Indian population alone suffers from some form of constipation? Multiply this about 10 times or more and you are going to get the global statistics for this digestive problem.

Unfortunately, to some people the mere mention of the word ‘constipation’ is still a taboo to be avoided. It falls within the realms of privacy; not to be discussed in public. Such notion is very unfortunate because almost everyone has either had the symptoms of constipation, has it now or will have it in the future. There are several factors which trigger or causes constipation, here are few:

• Lack of fiber in the diet

The most common cause of constipation is a diet low in fiber and high in fats. Fiber absorbs water and causes stools to be larger, softer, and easier to pass. Fiber can be found in all plant foods and is categorized in two groups: Insoluble fiber (found in wheat bran, vegetables, whole grains) and Soluble fiber (found in oat bran, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils and peas). On average, people eat about 5 to 20 grams of fiber daily, short of the 20 to 35 grams recommended for adults. This usually happens with children and adults who eat too many refined and processed foods in which the natural fiber is removed or with older adults who often lack interest in eating because of loss of teeth. They may choose to eat soft foods that are processed and low in fiber.

• Not enough liquids

Liquids like water and juice add fluid to the colon and bulk to stools, making bowel movements softer and easier to pass. If you have constipation then you should drink enough of these liquids every day, about eight 8-ounce glasses (about 2 liters). Other liquids, like coffee and soft drinks that contain caffeine seem to have a dehydrating effect.

• Lack of exercise

Lack of exercise is one of the key things that lead to constipation. A regular walking plan - even 10 to 15 minutes, can help your body digest the food easily. Activity lowers the time it takes food to move through the large intestine and stimulate contractions of your intestine muscles which help move stools out quickly.

• Change in lifestyle routine

Constipation often occurs in people who travel extensively because of the change in their diet and sleep pattern. It is also experienced by pregnant women due to hormonal changes in their body. Here are few tips to deal with constipation during pregnancy

• Ignoring the urge

People who ignore the urge to have a bowel movement may eventually stop feeling the urge, which can lead to constipation. Some people delay having a bowel movement because they do not want to use toilets outside the home. Others ignore the urge because of emotional stress or because they are too busy. Children may postpone having a bowel movement because of stressful toilet training or because they do not want to interrupt their play. 

• Medications

Pain medications (especially narcotics), antacids that contain aluminum, antispasmodics, antidepressants, iron supplements, diuretics, and anticonvulsants for epilepsy can slow passage of bowel movements.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Some people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) have spasms in the colon that affect bowel movements. Constipation and diarrhea often alternate, and abdominal cramping, gassiness, and bloating are other common complaints.

• Specific Diseases

Diseases that cause constipation include neurological disorders, metabolic and endocrine disorders, and systemic conditions that affect organ systems. These disorders can slow the movement of stool through the colon, rectum, or anus.

• Abuse of Laxatives 

This is common among older adults who are preoccupied with having a daily bowel movement. Laxatives usually are not necessary and can be habit-forming. The colon begins to rely on laxatives to bring on bowel movements. Over time, laxatives can damage nerve cells in the colon and interfere with the colon's natural ability to contract. For the same reason, regular use of enemas can also lead to a loss of normal bowel function.

If you are suffering from chronic constipation, try safer and natural alternative i.e. homeopathic treatment for constipation. Homeopathy aims to correct bowel patterns, relieve pain and also treat associated emotional complaints such as anxiety and depression. It offers treatment based on your individual case pattern. To get an expert advice from our homeopathic doctors, book an appointment