For the purposes of this article we’ll discuss constipation that is not being caused by physical damage or an obstruction in the colon. This type of constipation requires further diagnosis and medical attention from your doctor.
The vast majority of constipation problems that people suffer from is directly related to their diet/eating habits. There are any number of described conditions and definitions of constipation, but the bottom line is that fecal matter is remaining in the colon too long and is becoming dry and hardened. When this happens, the movement of the fecal matter slows and becomes difficult for the body to pass the matter along the intestinal track.
Constipation is a symptom or a result of something happening. In this case, the colon is unable to work properly. The symptom of constipation should be letting you know that something is amiss with your digestion; and more often than not – what is amiss is something in your diet. Improper diet is by far the leading cause of constipation.
More specifically as it relates to diet is not enough fiber and/or insufficient fluid intake. Also, an inactive lifestyle with little exercise can also be a contributing factor in unhealthy digestive performance resulting in becoming constipated.
Let’s take a look at some dietary aspects that you can use to keep your colon functioning properly and you constipation free.
Fiber is the primary key. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are on the positive side of the ledger; fatty foods and sugars are on the negative side. Most of us don’t nearly get enough fiber in our diet as we should. You see fiber streams right through the digestive process without being absorbed by the body. Fiber will actually absorb water which will keep the stool moist and easy for your colon to move it along and eventually pass. A diet too low in fiber lacks this absorption attribute and as such the intestines naturally draw water out and dry out the stool making it hard and difficult to move forward.
Certainly closely related to fiber and the retention of moisture in fecal matter is the fluid intake itself as a big part of your diet. The importance of fluid intake cannot be understated. Your body depends on fluids to help flush the body in an efficient manner. Be advised that consuming fluids via coffee, caffeinated soft drinks, and alcohol, don’t count. In fact, these types of drinks only act to dehydrate rather than hydrate your system.
Keep your digestive system tuned also results by keeping your body tuned… exercise. Among the many other benefits to your body, regular exercise help keep you regular by keeping your metabolism rate up.
Occasional constipation in and of itself is not physically dangerous to you. However, constant or chronic constipation can be; and can be the signs of something more serious that changing your diet will not help.
Pay close attention to your symptoms and what your body is trying to tell you. If diet and exercise don’t improve your conditions, you should set an appointment with your physician to discuss.