Sluggish bowels?

Did you know? Ancient Egyptians were not only known for their pyramids but their sluggish bowls. Yes it is true. In their culture laxatives were a common medicinal use by the Pharaohs. In our culture today 15- 20 percent of Americans experience chronic constipation, four million have continual constipation and with age the problem only worsens. An adequate bowel movement would be defined as every day to every other day, without being dry or hard to pass.

Now it is time to fix the problem! Perhaps it is the way you are sitting on the stool? Now I never thought about this one. Try taking a stool and place your feet on it, creating a squatting position (like you are out in the woods). This is the perfect physiological way to have a smooth bowel movement. This may seem awkward at first, but hey if it works-it works. Here are some other things we can do to regulate ourselves: exercise, get a good nights sleep, relieve stress add needed vitamins and minerals such as C B5 choline and magnesium, quit eating refined foods and add fiber.

Researches say we need to consume about 35 grams of fiber a day. High fiber foods include: figs, bran, prunes, apricot, oatmeal, beans and vegetables. You could even take a supplement; however, make sure it contains both insoluble and soluble fiber. Herboligists would suggest Triphalia constipation, along with its many other health benefits. Dehydrtation also can lead to irregularity, for when water moves through the gastro-intestinal tract it is absorbed into the body and dry out the large intestine. Be sure to drink a half ounce to every pound you weigh.
It is also important to remember that if you are taking any medication which may constipate you as well, for you may be doing all of this and are still feeling “stuck”. Or you may also have inadequate digestive enzymes contributing to your problem, another factor which isn’t an easy fix. Overuse of laxatives and enemas could furthermore add to the predicament. Now it is your turn to be active and prevent or fix constipation for ever.