A Magazine of People and
Possibilities
Now Celebrating 17 Years In Print and 11 Years Online!
Bowel Disorders
or Constipation
by Dr. Raj Rakhra
The frequency of the defecation and the
consistency and volume of stools vary so greatly from one person
to another, it is difficult to determine what is normal. Family,
social and dietary customs have a major effect on our bowel movements.
Constipation can be defined as infrequent or hard and dry stool
or difficulty in evacuating stools. Passing one or more soft,
bulky stool everyday is desirable, but according to the American
Society of Health, four and a half million people in the U.S.
are constipated most or all of the time. Constipation is reported
as the most common gastrointestinal complaint all around, resulting
in millions of doctor's visits annually. Most people try to treat
themselves without seeking medical help, which has resulted in
millions of dollars being spent on over the counter laxatives
each year. Unfortunately most of these over the counter remedies
are not always suitable for an individual's disorder, and often
cause more harm than good.
Proper eliminations are very important as the bowel is the potential
source of many toxins. Toxins from bowel bacteria have been found
to be possibly related to the development of diseases such as
Diabetes Mellitus, Meningitis, Myasthenia Gravis, Thyroid Disease,
Ulcerative Colitis and others.
What causes constipation?
As food moves through the colon, it absorbs water while forming
waste product or stool. The muscle contractions in the colon push
the stool toward the rectum and by the time the stool reaches
the rectum, it is solid because most of the water has been absorbed.
The hard and dry stools of constipation occur when the colon absorbs
too much water or if the colon's muscle contractions are too slow
or sluggish, causing the stool to move through the colon too slowly.
The most common causes of constipation are: Not enough fiber in
the diet · Not enough liquids · Lack of exercise
· Certain medications · Irritable bowel syndrome
· Change in lifestyle or routine such as pregnancy, travel
· Abuse of laxatives · Ignoring the urge to have
bowel movement · Diseases such as Stroke, MS, anxiety and
stress
Lacking fiber in the diet
Foods such as fruit, vegetables and whole grains are high in fiber,
and without these foods in the diet along with excessive fatty
and processed foods such as cheese, and eggs, it is very common
for constipation to occur. People who eat plenty of high fiber
foods are less likely to become constipated. Older people who
have difficulty chewing or swallowing may be forced to eat soft
processed foods low in fiber, which can leave them constipated
more often.
Not enough Liquids
Most people who are constipated do not drink enough water. An
average person should drink approximately eight- 8 ounce glasses
of water each day. Liquids that contain caffeine such as coffee/tea,
cola and alcohol have a dehydrating effect on the body, which
also leads to constipation.
Lack of exercise
It is proven that a lack of exercise can cause constipation. People
who are immobile or inactive often find themselves more constipated.
It is recommended a person do 20-30 minutes of moderate physical
activity at least 5 times a week to stay healthy.
Abuse of laxatives
Abuse of laxatives can cause the colon to rely on laxatives that
can damage nerve cells in the colon and interfere with the colon's
natural ability to contract. For the same reason the regular use
of an enema can lead to the loss of normal bowel function.
Irritable bowel or spastic colon
Irritable bowel or spastic colons are spasms in the colon that
affect bowel movements. Constipation and diarrhea often alternate,
and abdominal cramping, gas and bloating are the other common
symptoms. This disorder often increases with high stress levels.
Medications/problems that can cause
constipation
Narcotics (pain killers) · Antacids containing aluminum
and calcium · Blood pressure medications · Anti
Parkinson drugs · Anti spasmodic, Antidepressants, Iron
supplements · Diuretics and Anticonvulsants.
Other medical problems such as structural abnormalities, Diverticulosis,
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, tumors, Polyps, Intestinal Obstruction,
Adhesion and Cancer can compress and squeeze or narrow the intestine
and rectum to cause constipation.
Candidiasis
This common yeast is present in every individual, and occasionally
will overgrow due to antibiotic intake, birth control pills or
lower immunity and cause Gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating,
gas, intestinal cramps and altered bowel functions along with
many other Endocrine and nervous system complaints, immune system
complaints, Chronic Fatigue, allergies or skin problems.
How is constipation treated?
A diet that includes 20 to 30 grams of fiber each day helps form
a soft stool. High fiber foods include beans, whole grain and
bran cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels
sprouts, cabbages and carrots. People prone to constipation should
limit foods such as ice cream, cheese, fatty meats and processed
foods.
Bulk forming laxatives such as Psyllium seed husks, are commonly
used to treat constipation, but can interfere with absorption
of some medications. These are also called fiber supplements and
are taken with heaps of water. They absorb water in the intestine,
make the stool bulky, softer and help in eliminating constipation.
Triflax Forte
is an Ayurvedic supplement that has been used by Ayurvedic doctors
for many, many years. Triflax Forte consists of three fruits which
have a very mild laxative effect. It is an excellent and very
gentle detox for the liver, gall bladder and colon. This special
formula has been used in our clinic and has proven to be very
effective in treating constipation. Triflax Forte is safe for
use by all ages including the elderly and can be used for long
periods of time if needed. This formula consists of a combination
of fruits which have an abundant source of natural Vitamin C,
antioxidants, and an astringent that helps peristaltic movements
and eradicate parasites. Triflax Forte can be found in your local
health food store or at our clinic.
Colon Hydrotherapy
is another method that cleans the bowel. This method is used by
professionals only, and a patient seeking this treatment should
be consulted by a Naturopathic Physician before starting this
procedure. It is very effective and has shown good results. Colon
Hydrotherapy is often used to clean a stagnated colon, help in
weight loss and treat other digestive system disorders.
Dr. Rakhra's clinic is
located at 121 - 14 Street North West in Calgary, Alberta.
He may be reached at: 403-270-7033.
See display ad in this issue for more information.
Visit his webiste at: www.aynh.com
A Magazine of People and Possibilities
Now Celebrating 17 Years In Print and 11 Years Online!