| 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.
|