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Constipation is a common digestive system problem. Constipation in children often occurs if they hold back bowel movements when they aren't ready for toilet training or are afraid of it. Older people are 5 times more likely than younger people to develop constipation. But experts believe that older people become too concerned with having a daily bowel movement and that constipation in this age group is overestimated. Some people who are constipated find it painful to have a bowel movement and often experience straining, bloating, and the sensation of a full bowel. With constipation stools are usually hard, dry, small in size, and difficult to eliminate. Pregnant women may have constipation, and it is a common problem following childbirth or surgery. Constipation occurs when the colon absorbs too much water or if the colon's muscle contractions are slow or sluggish, causing the stool to move through the colon too slowly. As a result, stools can become hard and dry. Constipation is most common in children and older people, and affects women more than men.
In some cases, constipation also may make you feel bloated or sluggish or experience discomfort or pain. Because constipation can be caused by serious medical conditions, such as cancer, a sudden change in bowel habits among middle-aged or elderly people warrants a thorough evaluation by a physician. One in 200 women have severe, continuous constipation and it is most common before a period and in pregnancy. Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints in the United States. Constipation is often experienced by people when they are travelling or on holiday. This is because their normal routine is interrupted and the biological clock is disrupted. Constipation can also alternate with diarrhea. Unfamiliar surroundings, different toilets and change of diet are all contributing factors. Constipation is best treated by making changes in your child's diet. Regular exercise is also important in establishing regular bowel movements.
Prevention of Constipation
- Eating plenty of foods that contain fiber is the mainstay of treatment.
- Daily use of 500 mg vitamin C and 400 mg magnesium can prevent constipation.
- Drink plenty of fluids when adding extra fiber.
- Regular exercise improves digestion and reduces stress.
- Over-the-counter products such as Metamucil and Citrucel can help keep stools soft and regular.
- Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
Home Remedies for Constipation
- Guava when eaten with seeds provides roughage to diet can give relief from constipation.
- Another natural remedy for constipation is to add a little extra sugar or some honey a glass of milk. Drink twice a day
- Try One tablespoonful of corn syrup added to 8oz of water to cure constipation.
- A common Ayurvedic medicine for constipation is Triphala Churna. It is a powder made by grinding three kinds of herbs. A teaspoon of this powder taken with warm water or milk at the time going to bed is beneficial.
- Ginger tea is a great home remedy for constipation. It helps start bowel movement.
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