When constipation only occurs occasionally we tend to wait for it to go away by itself, thinking what harm can it do? In fact there are several reasons to treat constipation:
Transit time – Although this varies from person to person, food can pass through our bodies in as little as 24-36 hours, however on average it is approximately 50-60 hours. When you are constipated it can be even longer, leading to a build –up of waste in the bowel – which can maek you feel very uncomfortable.
Build-up of waste – the build up of food waste gets heavier and heavier day after day – making you feel uncomfortable, bloated and lethargic.
Don’t just take our world for it here’s what you said:
• 5% of people mentioned discomfort, fatigue and skin complaints as symptoms they associated with constipation
• one in four women mentioned irritability as a symptom of constipation
• 51% admit to feeling less attractive, which impacts on their social lives; 38% said that they have either cancelled or left early from a social engagement
• 68% said that having constipation affects their sex life, either because it is too painful or they do not feel attractive
Reasons to treat constipation>>
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Monday, 17 November 2008
Constipation Advice.ie
Lifestyle Advice
Tips for a healthier lifestyle
Lifestyle has a direct impact on the digestive system, which can be easily disrupted by a poor diet, lack of fluids, too little exercise, absence of routine and high levels of stress. Dealing with these will go a long way towards resolving the problem.
Of course, that is easier said than done. When you are rushed off your feet, under pressure at work or in charge of a demanding family, things are a little more complicated. Here are a few tips which may help you to relieve the burden of a busy lifestyle:
Diet
Eat high-fibre cereals for a good, and quick, start to your day. (click here to view a fibre content table for more information)
Find a health food shop near your place of work for quick and easy access to wholesome food – or take a fibre-rich packed lunch.
Stop working while you are eating and don’t eat too quickly – it’s only 15 minutes of the whole day!
Try not to rely on packaged meals or fast food – they are often high in additives and fat and low in fibre.
Cooking dinners for the week ahead can save time, and you know what you are eating.
Fluids
Your body needs 1.5-2 litres of fluids a day, so keep a bottle of mineral water permanently in sight, on your desk perhaps, to remind you to keep on drinking.)
Try to cut down on tea, coffee and alcohol, as these can dehydrate you.
Exercise
Take advantage of all natural opportunities for exercise – for instance, take the stairs instead of the lift or walk to the shops instead of taking the car.
Going to the gym can seem like yet another chore – it helps if it’s an activity you actually enjoy. Try out several sports to see if there’s one you really like.
Taking the whole family swimming or cycling at the weekend makes for pleasurable exercise which doesn’t take you away from them.
Stress
Try to set aside some time for yourself – you deserve it! A massage, meditation, listening to music or whatever makes you feel relaxed will ultimately benefit your inner health, too.
The digestive system responds well to routine. Having set times for certain tasks will benefit your digestion and can help you feel more in control.
Take a few deep breaths when you are particularly stressed. Having a short break can put things in perspective.
Treatment
Don’t be reluctant to seek treatment if constipation persists. Your body suffers when it is constipated, so by taking a constipation remedy, you can help restore your body’s free-flowing digestive system to help achieve inner health.
http://www.constipationadvice.ie/acheiving-inner-health/lifestyle-advice.html
Tips for a healthier lifestyle
Lifestyle has a direct impact on the digestive system, which can be easily disrupted by a poor diet, lack of fluids, too little exercise, absence of routine and high levels of stress. Dealing with these will go a long way towards resolving the problem.
Of course, that is easier said than done. When you are rushed off your feet, under pressure at work or in charge of a demanding family, things are a little more complicated. Here are a few tips which may help you to relieve the burden of a busy lifestyle:
Diet
Eat high-fibre cereals for a good, and quick, start to your day. (click here to view a fibre content table for more information)
Find a health food shop near your place of work for quick and easy access to wholesome food – or take a fibre-rich packed lunch.
Stop working while you are eating and don’t eat too quickly – it’s only 15 minutes of the whole day!
Try not to rely on packaged meals or fast food – they are often high in additives and fat and low in fibre.
Cooking dinners for the week ahead can save time, and you know what you are eating.
Fluids
Your body needs 1.5-2 litres of fluids a day, so keep a bottle of mineral water permanently in sight, on your desk perhaps, to remind you to keep on drinking.)
Try to cut down on tea, coffee and alcohol, as these can dehydrate you.
Exercise
Take advantage of all natural opportunities for exercise – for instance, take the stairs instead of the lift or walk to the shops instead of taking the car.
Going to the gym can seem like yet another chore – it helps if it’s an activity you actually enjoy. Try out several sports to see if there’s one you really like.
Taking the whole family swimming or cycling at the weekend makes for pleasurable exercise which doesn’t take you away from them.
Stress
Try to set aside some time for yourself – you deserve it! A massage, meditation, listening to music or whatever makes you feel relaxed will ultimately benefit your inner health, too.
The digestive system responds well to routine. Having set times for certain tasks will benefit your digestion and can help you feel more in control.
Take a few deep breaths when you are particularly stressed. Having a short break can put things in perspective.
Treatment
Don’t be reluctant to seek treatment if constipation persists. Your body suffers when it is constipated, so by taking a constipation remedy, you can help restore your body’s free-flowing digestive system to help achieve inner health.
http://www.constipationadvice.ie/acheiving-inner-health/lifestyle-advice.html
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Treating Constipation
Constipation can be more than just a nuisance. Aside from the more common symptoms of feeling bloated, uncomfortable and lethargic, some sufferers associate constipation with headaches, backache and skin complaints. Where it persists, it is advisable to seek treatment. But how do you know when it's right to do so - and what would be a suitable remedy?
I found this fantastic Treatment Advisor which helps to provide you with information which will help you to decide which is the right treatment for you.
Click here for your Treatment Advisor
I found this fantastic Treatment Advisor which helps to provide you with information which will help you to decide which is the right treatment for you.
Click here for your Treatment Advisor
Pregnancy & Constipation
Pregnancy is a special time in a woman’s life. Nothing can compare to the wonder of feeling a new life growing inside you. Yet with the wonder comes a number of health complaints – and one of the most common of these is constipation.
A quarter of expectant mums suffer from constipation during their pregnancy, many of whom have never had constipation before.*
In fact, it is among the top three most uncomfortable complaints listed by pregnant women.
Why does constipation affect so many women during these precious months? Basically, when you are pregnant, your body experiences many changes. Your habits change, too; you may eat different things or you may be taking supplements recommended by your doctor. These are all contributing factors.
Senokot ‘Health Taboos Uncovered’ survey conducted by YouGov in March 2005.
Common causes
Put simply, constipation during pregnancy can be caused by hormones, dietary changes and the pressure of the growing baby.
Hormones
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect bowel movements. The body produces more progesterone, which relaxes the muscles to allow the baby to grow. However, the wall of the intestine is made of muscle, too. As the progesterone makes it relax, it can become less efficient at moving along food and waste.
Diet and supplements
Many women take iron supplements during pregnancy which can also be a contributing factor to constipation. Tastes can change at this time and many women alter their diet. This change in eating habits can also affect bowel activity, particularly if it means a reduction in fibre-rich foods.
The pressure’s on...
As the baby grows, it puts increasing pressure on the bowel. The discomfort of its weight and general tiredness may lead to a lack of exercise. Both can slow down bowel movements.
Being constipated during my pregnancy was bad enough, but now I also have haemorrhoids. It just doesn’t seem fair.
A growing problem?
Haemorrhoids
Constipation during pregnancy often goes hand in hand with haemorrhoids. As a result of straining to go to the toilet, constipation can aggravate or cause haemorrhoids. They often disappear by themselves shortly after the baby is born but, while present, they can be very itchy or even painful. Pelvic floor exercises can help, by improving the blood flow to the area. Otherwise, taking steps to relieve constipation goes a long way towards dealing with haemorrhoids. Senokot Hi-Fibre Drink works naturally with your body to allow you to go to the loo without undue straining. If you are experiencing a lot of discomfort, consult your doctor.
Post-natal constipation
Even after pregnancy, some 29% of women continue to get constipation.* Women who have had an episiotomy or tear may subconsciously hold back bowel movements for fear of aggravating the wound.
Being constipated during my pregnancy was bad enough, but now I also have haemorrhoids. It just doesn’t seem fair.
Fybogel Hi-Fibre
Fybogel Hi-fibre is a natural fibre drink that can help to gently relieve constipation. It’s suitable to use during pregnancy and works naturally with your body to take care of constipation.
(Contains ispaghula husk - always read the label and consult a doctor before using any medicines in pregnancy).
Constipation relief during pregnancy
First of all, do not worry too much. There are a number of things you can do to help get your digestive system moving again during this time.
Increase your fibre intake
Your digestive system can do with a little help during this exciting time. Eating more fibre-rich foods, like fruit, vegetables, cereals and wholemeal bread, will help provide the necessary roughage to keep your system moving.
Drink plenty of fluids
Drinking a lot of fluid helps keep the stool soft and easy to pass. At least 7-8 glasses a day is recommended. You can drink as much water and fruit juices (particularly prune juice) as you like. It’s better to drink water, but even a little tea or coffee counts towards the total.
Make sure you get enough exercise
Although you may feel heavy and uncomfortable, exercise helps prevent your digestive system becoming 'sluggish'. Safe exercise during pregnancy includes walking, swimming, yoga and other low-impact activity where there is little chance of sprains or accidents. Approximately 20-30 minutes of exercise two or three times a week can have a beneficial effect, not only for your digestive system, but also your general well-being.
Your doctor may suggest a remedy
There are gentle remedies that can help to soften bowel movements and relieve constipation, such as Senokot Hi-Fibre drink. It works naturally with your body to help take care of constipation. Consult your doctor to discuss the options.
Antenatal supplements
If you are taking a supplement, you may want to talk to your doctor about changing to a different type of antenatal supplement. If you are taking iron supplements, make sure you drink the minimum recommendation of 7-8 glasses of water a day.
Post-natal care
Congratulations! There is a brand new person in your life who has captured your heart. If you had an episiotomy or tear, try not to hold back your stools. This will only make them sit in the bowel for longer, making them harder and more difficult to pass, aggravating constipation. Try gently holding a clean gauze over the stitches when you go. More than anything, it gives you peace of mind that the wound won’t reopen during the bowel movement – an unlikely event in any case. Keep stools soft by eating lots of fibre and drinking plenty of water. If necessary, talk to your doctor about taking a constipation remedy such as Senokot Hi-Fibre drink, a natural fibre drink that gently helps to take care of constipation.
Should I worry?
However unpleasant, be assured that constipation is rarely serious and does not harm your baby.
However, if your constipation is persistent and causing a lot of discomfort, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.
A quarter of expectant mums suffer from constipation during their pregnancy, many of whom have never had constipation before.*
In fact, it is among the top three most uncomfortable complaints listed by pregnant women.
Why does constipation affect so many women during these precious months? Basically, when you are pregnant, your body experiences many changes. Your habits change, too; you may eat different things or you may be taking supplements recommended by your doctor. These are all contributing factors.
Senokot ‘Health Taboos Uncovered’ survey conducted by YouGov in March 2005.
Common causes
Put simply, constipation during pregnancy can be caused by hormones, dietary changes and the pressure of the growing baby.
Hormones
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect bowel movements. The body produces more progesterone, which relaxes the muscles to allow the baby to grow. However, the wall of the intestine is made of muscle, too. As the progesterone makes it relax, it can become less efficient at moving along food and waste.
Diet and supplements
Many women take iron supplements during pregnancy which can also be a contributing factor to constipation. Tastes can change at this time and many women alter their diet. This change in eating habits can also affect bowel activity, particularly if it means a reduction in fibre-rich foods.
The pressure’s on...
As the baby grows, it puts increasing pressure on the bowel. The discomfort of its weight and general tiredness may lead to a lack of exercise. Both can slow down bowel movements.
Being constipated during my pregnancy was bad enough, but now I also have haemorrhoids. It just doesn’t seem fair.
A growing problem?
Haemorrhoids
Constipation during pregnancy often goes hand in hand with haemorrhoids. As a result of straining to go to the toilet, constipation can aggravate or cause haemorrhoids. They often disappear by themselves shortly after the baby is born but, while present, they can be very itchy or even painful. Pelvic floor exercises can help, by improving the blood flow to the area. Otherwise, taking steps to relieve constipation goes a long way towards dealing with haemorrhoids. Senokot Hi-Fibre Drink works naturally with your body to allow you to go to the loo without undue straining. If you are experiencing a lot of discomfort, consult your doctor.
Post-natal constipation
Even after pregnancy, some 29% of women continue to get constipation.* Women who have had an episiotomy or tear may subconsciously hold back bowel movements for fear of aggravating the wound.
Being constipated during my pregnancy was bad enough, but now I also have haemorrhoids. It just doesn’t seem fair.
Fybogel Hi-Fibre
Fybogel Hi-fibre is a natural fibre drink that can help to gently relieve constipation. It’s suitable to use during pregnancy and works naturally with your body to take care of constipation.
(Contains ispaghula husk - always read the label and consult a doctor before using any medicines in pregnancy).
Constipation relief during pregnancy
First of all, do not worry too much. There are a number of things you can do to help get your digestive system moving again during this time.
Increase your fibre intake
Your digestive system can do with a little help during this exciting time. Eating more fibre-rich foods, like fruit, vegetables, cereals and wholemeal bread, will help provide the necessary roughage to keep your system moving.
Drink plenty of fluids
Drinking a lot of fluid helps keep the stool soft and easy to pass. At least 7-8 glasses a day is recommended. You can drink as much water and fruit juices (particularly prune juice) as you like. It’s better to drink water, but even a little tea or coffee counts towards the total.
Make sure you get enough exercise
Although you may feel heavy and uncomfortable, exercise helps prevent your digestive system becoming 'sluggish'. Safe exercise during pregnancy includes walking, swimming, yoga and other low-impact activity where there is little chance of sprains or accidents. Approximately 20-30 minutes of exercise two or three times a week can have a beneficial effect, not only for your digestive system, but also your general well-being.
Your doctor may suggest a remedy
There are gentle remedies that can help to soften bowel movements and relieve constipation, such as Senokot Hi-Fibre drink. It works naturally with your body to help take care of constipation. Consult your doctor to discuss the options.
Antenatal supplements
If you are taking a supplement, you may want to talk to your doctor about changing to a different type of antenatal supplement. If you are taking iron supplements, make sure you drink the minimum recommendation of 7-8 glasses of water a day.
Post-natal care
Congratulations! There is a brand new person in your life who has captured your heart. If you had an episiotomy or tear, try not to hold back your stools. This will only make them sit in the bowel for longer, making them harder and more difficult to pass, aggravating constipation. Try gently holding a clean gauze over the stitches when you go. More than anything, it gives you peace of mind that the wound won’t reopen during the bowel movement – an unlikely event in any case. Keep stools soft by eating lots of fibre and drinking plenty of water. If necessary, talk to your doctor about taking a constipation remedy such as Senokot Hi-Fibre drink, a natural fibre drink that gently helps to take care of constipation.
Should I worry?
However unpleasant, be assured that constipation is rarely serious and does not harm your baby.
However, if your constipation is persistent and causing a lot of discomfort, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.
Constipation Causes
Just because you get constipation doesn't mean you are unhealthy or even that you have an unhealthy lifestyle. You can follow a high-fibre diet, exercise every day, drink lots of water yet still get constipation from time to time. Even from childhood some people just seem to be more susceptible than others. There's really no need to feel you've brought constipation on yourself.
However, certain things make constipation more likely:
Diet - Dietary fibre provides the bulk that helps to speed the passage of waste food through the bowel. Lack of fibre results in harder, more compact stools, which take longer to pass through.
Lack of fluids - the body needs 1.5-2 litres a day to function efficiently. Without sufficient fluids, waste matter dries out, making it harder to move through the bowel.
Lack of exercise - if you don't exercise often, things can slow down including the muscle contractions that move waste matter through the bowel.
Holiday constipation - is quite common. Any change of routine or diet can cause constipation.
Pregnancy - hormonal and physical changes are probable causes.
Menopause and menstruation - hormonal and lifestyle changes at these times can cause constipation.
Stress - constipation can be caused by stress but stress can also be a symptom of constipation.
Ageing - a lot of bodily functions slow down with age and the digestive system is just one of them.
Medicines - some commonly used medicines are known to cause constipation, particularly certain painkillers (e.g. codeine), iron tablets and some antacids (e.g aluminium hydroxide).
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) sufferers often have constipation, sometimes alternating with diarrhoea. In IBS, cramping pains and discomfort in the bowel and rectum are common.
However, certain things make constipation more likely:
Diet - Dietary fibre provides the bulk that helps to speed the passage of waste food through the bowel. Lack of fibre results in harder, more compact stools, which take longer to pass through.
Lack of fluids - the body needs 1.5-2 litres a day to function efficiently. Without sufficient fluids, waste matter dries out, making it harder to move through the bowel.
Lack of exercise - if you don't exercise often, things can slow down including the muscle contractions that move waste matter through the bowel.
Holiday constipation - is quite common. Any change of routine or diet can cause constipation.
Pregnancy - hormonal and physical changes are probable causes.
Menopause and menstruation - hormonal and lifestyle changes at these times can cause constipation.
Stress - constipation can be caused by stress but stress can also be a symptom of constipation.
Ageing - a lot of bodily functions slow down with age and the digestive system is just one of them.
Medicines - some commonly used medicines are known to cause constipation, particularly certain painkillers (e.g. codeine), iron tablets and some antacids (e.g aluminium hydroxide).
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) sufferers often have constipation, sometimes alternating with diarrhoea. In IBS, cramping pains and discomfort in the bowel and rectum are common.
Symptoms of Constipation
Symptoms vary between sufferers. Some people just experience a spot of difficulty, having to 'strain' on the toilet, while others may have physical discomfort, particularly:
wind
bloating
stomach pains/stomach cramps
Constipation doesn't just cause gastrointestinal symptoms, people often experience the following problems when their digestive systems slow down:
lethargy
headache
irritability
feeling 'down in the dumps'
These symptoms can lead to a lack of confidence, perhaps feeling less buoyant than usual, in fact constipation can really spoil your day. Unfortunately, you may not even realise you are constipated. Many of us lead such busy lives our bowel habits go largely unnoticed, but you know that you just don't feel 'quite right'.
wind
bloating
stomach pains/stomach cramps
Constipation doesn't just cause gastrointestinal symptoms, people often experience the following problems when their digestive systems slow down:
lethargy
headache
irritability
feeling 'down in the dumps'
These symptoms can lead to a lack of confidence, perhaps feeling less buoyant than usual, in fact constipation can really spoil your day. Unfortunately, you may not even realise you are constipated. Many of us lead such busy lives our bowel habits go largely unnoticed, but you know that you just don't feel 'quite right'.
Understanding Constipation
The frequency of bowel movements varies widely - some people go once or twice a day, others every two days or more - all entirely normal if that's what you're used to. In constipation it's the change in your habits that's important.
Constipation is a change in your bowel habits, where you go to the toilet less often than is usual for you.
You are not alone
The most important thing about constipation is not to worry. Around half of all people have bowel problems at some time in their lives. The digestive system is sensitive to changes in lifestyle, so you should not be surprised when, for whatever reason, things start to move more slowly than usual.
Constipation is a change in your bowel habits, where you go to the toilet less often than is usual for you.
You are not alone
The most important thing about constipation is not to worry. Around half of all people have bowel problems at some time in their lives. The digestive system is sensitive to changes in lifestyle, so you should not be surprised when, for whatever reason, things start to move more slowly than usual.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
