Finding Relief for Bloating and Constipation

For a number of Americans that have become accustomed to conveniences such as fast foods, constipation is a normal occurrence. Some studies indicate that as much as four million residents in the US have become constipated at least once in their lifetime. Poor diet, lack of fluids and exercise are some of the possible causes of constipation. Besides straining to initiate bowel straining, individuals can also feel bloated. In most cases the effects are temporary and can be treated with some simple constipation remedies, meaning bloating and constipation need not be an embarrassing problem any longer. There are products on the market such as Bowtrol which help to cleanse the colon. Also there are many different types of body cleanse which are available to help flush out toxins and will, as a side result, help to eliminate the symptoms and causes of constipation.

Although constipation is sometimes associated to being a disease, it is actually a symptom to other health conditions. A healthy adult normally has bowel movement between 3 to 21 times a week. Any less than this amount and the person may be constipated. Bowel movement of less than once a week is a clear indication that the person is suffering from acute constipation.

With constipation comes a number of other symptoms and health conditions. Bloating and overproduction of gasses are common. It is distinguished by a feeling of swelling of the abdominal areas. The stomach stretches beyond its limits, producing more gas than normal. At times, the waste piles up inside the person’s bowels, obstructing other stools from passing. Although constipation is not serious, it should still be treated quickly as it may lead to other more serious ailments.

Regular bowel movement is necessary to avoid increasing the risk of getting afflicted with more serious ailments such as colon cancer. Stools stored in the bowels for long periods of time can produce bacteria and toxins which can poison the body. Other possible symptoms that may arise from the accumulation of wastes in the body include acne, skin irritations, eczema, headaches and even mood swings.

There are numerous ways of tackling constipation and bloating. Constipation is a symptom oftentimes directly associated with poor diet, especially a lack of fiber. Fiber is effective in cleaning the bowels, making stools denser yet retaining their water content. As such, eating fiber rich foods will help in both treating and preventing constipation. Consuming foods such as psyllium husk is helpful in treating constipation.

Although more evident during recent times, constipation occurs in other societies throughout history. Another fruit used in treating bloating and constipation includes prunes. It contains potassium promoting bowel movement and cleaning the feces that lines the colon. Other potassium rich foods include vegetables such as cauliflower, tomato, broccoli and cucumber. Herbs such as aloe and frangula are also effective but require consultation from a doctor for their potent laxative effects.