Constipation
Constipation is a problem that affects most of us. It consists of a delay or complication of the evacuation of waste in an unusual or chronic ways. Its main cause is the weakening of the intestinal transit obtained from dehydration of stools. In general, it is considered that an individual is constipated when the number of stools is less than three per week. On the other hand, this analysis can sometimes be incorrect because stool frequency varies from one individual to another.
Epidemiological statistics about constipation
From a statistical point of view, constipation affects women. Indeed, recent researches say that women are three to four times concerned with constipation problems than men. Statistics indicate that 75% to 80% of constipated people are women. Some medical theories prove that hormonal problems may be the cause of constipation among women. Thus, the action of progesterone on the motor ability of some muscles involved in intestinal transit causes ineffectiveness of the digestive tract during the evacuation of waste. Furthermore, the proportion of this hormone varies during the menstrual cycle. It is produced in greater quantity from the 14th day of the cycle. During this period, a temporary constipation is usually present among women.
Etiology of constipation
Constipation comes from disorders of the progression or the evacuation of waste. Note, however, that sometimes one can cause the other. Thus, the causes are various, but are frequently related to an upheaval of everyday life. Then certain serious forms can also be generated by cysts or the narrowing of the colon. It may also be that constipation is caused by poor dietary habits. In case of constipation the intestinal transit is slowed. In this case, the digestive tract is so lazy, so the waste remains in the colon. In addition, the transient constipation can become chronic over time. In this case, it is due to functional colopathy also known as irritable bowel syndrome or irritable bowel.
The consequences of constipation
Constipation causes different effects on the human body. This is different depending on the seriousness of the case. First, constipation can be transient when the condition of the individual is not worrying. For this, the complication can be cured by itself without having to see a doctor. In this case, a bad diet may be the origin of trouble. Otherwise, the complication of stool evacuation also causes a severe pain in the abdomen or stomach. Thereby, constipation takes a little more time. Consulting a doctor is expected for this case because it is more serious. Finally, there are cases where constipation requires treatment for an indefinite period of time. In that case, fatigue is one of the first manifestations of the disease. Note also that these intestinal disorders have no direct effect on the sleep pattern. However, early morning awakenings are very difficult. In fact, constipation wearies the body because it allows the toxins normally removed daily to accumulate in the large intestine.
The prevention through diet and herbal medicine
Unless the cause of constipation is medical, the complication of stool evacuation is often related to poor eating habits. However, there are some health practices advice to improve intestinal transit. First, 1.5 to 2 liters of liquids per day must be drunk for the wellness of the body. This method is very effective, because the absorbtion of liquids in sufficient quantities stimulates softening stools and helps their better evacuation. It is recommended to drink water, fruit juice or soup. Second, it is also advised to eat more fiber. This helps the intestine to remove waste from the body. We find these fibers in fresh and dried fruits and vegetables. Thus, the prune is such a remedy to avoid constipation. Juices and jams of these fruits are natural and effective laxative. It is also better to eat whole grains like rice and mixes.
The sitting position also promotes constipation. We must therefore think of doing exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles. The regular practice of a physical exercise helps the intestinal transit. It is, also, recommended to regularly massage the stomach to stimulate the lazy bowel. As for the daily habits, it is necessary to go to the toilet every day at the same hour. This will educate the intestine and muscles to do their job regularly.