Constipation
Constipation is defined as having a bowel movement fewer than three times per week. With constipation, stools are usually hard, dry, small in size, and difficult to eliminate. Some people who are constipated find it painful to have a bowel movement and often experience straining, bloating, and the sensation of a full bowel.
Constipation occurs when the colon absorbs too much water or if the colon's muscle contractions are slow or sluggish, causing the stool to move through the colon too slowly. As a result, stools can become hard and dry.
Constipation is a symptom, not a disease. Almost everyone experiences constipation at some point in their life, and a poor diet typically is the cause. See case history.
A Personalised Screening with the 'Health Detective'Screening System will highlight valuable information to help identify the cause of the problem.
CAUSES
Dietary - highly refined and low fibre foods, de-hydration/inadequate fluid intake
Inadequate exercise - prolonged bed rest
Pregnancy
Advanced age
Drugs: anaesthetics, antacids, antidepressants, anti hypertensives, anti parkinsonism drugs, beta blockers, diuretics, iron salts, muscle relaxants, toxic metals
Hyperglycaemia
Hypothyroidism, hypercalcaemia
Diverticulosis, IBS, (alternating diarrhoea and constipation)
Tumour
Natural Practices recommend:
A high fibre diet should be followed - more fibre will increase frequency and quality of bowel movements and decrease transit time
Fruit and vegetables, grains, seed husk
Drink 1 ½ - 2 litres of filtered water daily
Colonic Hydrotherapy is extremely beneficial for constipation, re-activating the movement of the muscles in the colon (peristalsis). Should Colonic Hydrotherapy not appeal, our Naturopath will guide you through a gentle detoxification programme to stimulate the bowel and dietary advice will be given to ensure the digestive tract functions optimally.
PRODUCTS:
CO-TON Tablets
Helps cleanse & strengthen the bowel without a laxative effect. Co-ton is suitable for most types of bowel disorders - IBS, Constipation, Diarrhoea & Bloating (not suitable for pregnant women or people with high blood pressure). Co-Ton is supplied either with Goldenseal or without for people with high blood pressure.
E-VAC
A mild bowel cleaner which is useful for sensitive bowels due to IBS or Candida
ASP Tablets
A medium strength bowel cleanser also suitable for women with painful, cramping periods
TNT Tablets
A strong bowel cleanser useful for stubborn constipation - use for a short time only until desired effect then change to a lower strength bowel cleanser
LOCLO
Promotes proper bowel movement and eases cramping. Removes toxins from the body.
The products Natural Practices recommend can be purchased from our on-line Shop or by telephone on 01625 549 000. We are aware that the on-line Shop leaves a lot to be desired and are currently working on making improvements.
The information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice and any health concerns should be investigated by your Doctor. Professional medical advice should be sought before embarking on any change of diet or supplementation programme.
