Constipation - A Lifestyle Disorder

Constipation is frequently observed Lifestyle Disorder, seen in almost every human being.

Chronic constipation may lead to Haemorrhoids or other complications like Hernia. It is usually accompanied by headache, coated tongue, foul breath and lack of appetite.

To treat constipation, Laxatives (substances that loosen stool and increase bowel movements) are used in modern medication.

Causes of Constipation:

1. Irregular eating and elimination habits

2. Prolonged Vitamin deficiencies

3. Stress (Mental worry & anxiety should be eliminated)

4. Lack of sleep and rest

5. Faulty dietary habits with more intake of processed and dry foods

6. Chronic use of Laxatives

7. Insufficient water intake

8. Side effects of certain medicines

9. Poor muscle tone as in old as well as bed-ridden persons

10. Lack of exercise and Yog (Yog poses to relieve constipation which stimulates the digestive system and relieves gases)

Guidelines on Dietary Modifications:

Maintaining gut health is an important criterion to control constipation.

1. Alkaline balanced diet (Ragi, Sprouted, Milk, Fruits & Green leafy vegetables)

2. Regular use of Probiotics (Yogurt) and Prebiotics (Banana)

3. A healthy adult should get 20~25 gm of Fiber/day in the mixture form of soluble (Fruits, Green leafy & Oats) & insoluble (Wheat bran, Whole grain, Legumes, Fruits & Green leafy)

4. Proper hydration

5. Improving digestion system efficiency with Cow ghee & Fiber like Pectin, Vitamin C

95% Serotonin (Neurotransmitter/mood stabilizer/happy chemical) is found in our digestive system.

A Healthy Mind lies in Healthy Stomach!