Constipation is defined as failure to have a bowel movement after three days or more.
It can be alleviated or prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, exercising regularly, taking time to relax and eating a diet with a high content of fiber, grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. Fiber absorbs water, thereby, providing bulk in the intestines and facilitating bowel movement.
In chronic constipation, the common functional causes are those which hamper normal bowel movements because the storage, transportation and evacuating mechanisms of the colon are deranged. Our Constipation Mix has been formulated to slowly bring muscle tone to the digestive tract and at the same time normalize other digestive functions, like stimulation of digestive juices, and healing of inflammed tissue. When taken continuously for three weeks to a month, bowel movements regain their normal functionality.
Secretory or stimulant laxatives such as Senna and Cascara should only be used for a short period and only as a last resort. These herbs contain anthraquinones which act by irritation of the intestinal mucosa or by direct neuronal stimulation. Peristaltic movements and intraluminal fluid both increase, with cramping and passage of semisolid stool in 6 to 8 hours. With continued use, melanosis coli, neuronal degeneration in the colon and serious fluid and electrolyte disturbance may occur.
Georges-Louis Friedli, PgDip., MSc, PhD.
georges-louis@friedli.com