Constipation

Chicory

Constipation results when waste material moves too slowly through the large bowel, resulting in its infrequent passage. Many ailments arise from constipation including haemorrhoids, flatulence, insomnia, migraine headaches, bad breath, obesity, indigestion and diverticulitis.

In most cases constipation arises from insufficient amounts of fibre and fluids in the diet. It may also be a side effect of some drugs such as iron tablets, pain killers and antidepressants. Constipation also occurs during pregnancy.

It is important that the bowels move on a daily. The body normally excretes waste in 18 to 24 hours. Harmful toxins can form after this period.

Recommendations

  • Exercise is important. Physical activity speeds the movement of waste through the intestines.
  • Avoid refined carbohydrates – white flour and white sugar. Also avoid dairy products and excessive meat consumption.
  • Eat 3 pieces of fresh fruit a day: apples, pears, oranges. Raw carrot and beetroot salad stimulate the bowel, as do lightly stir-fried shredded cabbage.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed to your cereal each day. This helps to soften the stool and adds bulk.
  • Make sure that you are drinking at least 1.5 litres of mineral water a day.
  • Aloe Vera juice stimulates bowel movements.

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How can I help?

Finding the cause of constipation is important. Is it the diet, liver congestion, holding on to stress, or a thyroid gland which has become out of balance? Checking the blood chemistry of the body will help solve the problem.