Constipation occurs when bowel movements occur less often than usual or consist of hard, dry stools that are pa inful or difficult to pass. Bowel habits vary, but an adult who has not had a bowel movement in three days is considered constipated.
You can't go to the toilet and have a bowel movement easily when you want to,
The stools are hard, dry and painful
Possible cramping pains in the stomach and feeling bloated.
Not getting enough fibre or bulk in your diet.
Not drinking enough fluids/being dehydrated
· Irritable bowel syndrome
· Pregnancy, older age, travel
· Taking some medicines such as painkillers with codeine in them
· Ignoring the urge to go to the toilet when you need to
· Problems with the colon and rectum
How can you avoid constipation?
· Drink plenty of fluids everyday (8-10 glasses of water is preferable)
· Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and grains
· Cut back on dairy foods such as cheese and eggs which can be constipating.
· Practice relaxation techniques. Stress can cause constipation
· Add additional bulk to the diet with bran.
· Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement
· Do not take laxatives unless directed by a doctor.
The importance of a regular digestive system is imperative to a healthy and pain free trip to the toilet! As digestion improves, the skin becomes softer & clearer, body odours reduce and the immune system strengthens. The longer fecal material sits in the colon, the harder the stool becomes and the more difficult it is to pass. A normal stool should not be either unusually hard or soft, and you shouldn't have to strain unreasonably to pass it. So remember to fill up on fibre, include plenty of green leafy vegetables in your diet and drink generous amounts of water to keep your body hydrated and assist your daily elimination process. Please note if constipation is a new problem and persists/ and or you find blood in your stool you should follow-up with your doctor.
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