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Constipation
Constipation occurs when waste material
moves too slowly through the large bowel, causing the infrequent
bowel movement. Decaying food ferments and generates
toxins, causing the colon to grow bacteria. Constipation can
cause gas, insomnia, bad breath, obesity, indigestion, depression
and headaches. Bowel transit time should be about 12 hours. If
the body's transit time is longer than 12 hours then constipation
is occurring.
This may cause the bowel to become dry, hard, pellet-like, and
difficult to pass.
Pre-Disposing
Factors / Common Causes:
1. Lack of Fiber
2. Lack of Fresh Foods
3. Foods that cause poor
bowel movements are:
Fried Fast Foods
Sugar
Dairy
Excess of Red Meat
Overeating
Overuse of drugs and laxatives
Lifestyle
Sleep
at least 8 hours a night
Fresh air
Sunshine
Drink Fresh water
Yoga to reduce stress
Review medications to insure they are not the underlying cause
Eat a balanced diet
Supplements that May Help
Supplements
Property of Supplements
Da
Huang
Rhubarb |
Main purgative herb.
Cools internal heat, which dries out essential body fluids
necessary to moisten the stool |
Tao
Ren
Peach Kernal |
Lubricate the intestine, and
provide a mild laxative effect |
Hu Ma
Ren
Flax Seed |
Lubricates the intestine, helps
replenish yin fluids which are essential |
| Aloe Vera Juice |
Promotes healing and cleansing,
aids in the softening of the stool |
| Apple Pectin |
A fiber that aids in correcting
constipation |
| Senna |
Stool softener -- not to
be used on a regular basis |
Refernces:
Herb Bible by Earl Mindell
Total Health Magazine
The Nutritional Protocol Manual
Chinese Medicine by Manfred Prokett
Natural Health Natural Medicine by Andrew Weil
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