The Best Ways of Preventing Constipation

Is constipation your constant companion? If so it's time for you to make some changes. Irregularity can make you uncomfortable and grumpy but chronic constipation lead to painful hemorrhoids, diverticulitis and even some types of cancer.

Whats the answer to this problem? Well laxatives can be helpful but over-use can be dangerous. First, frequent use of laxatives can diminish their effectiveness. If your using one that contains magnesium there may be serious side effects such as ncrmping, diarrhea, and dehydration along with breathing difficulties, irregular heart beat and, in extreme cases, even coma.

With the dangers of laxatives what are you supposed to do? well, Why not start off by trying an age old remedy for constipation. Mix up to three tablespoons of honey into a glass of warm water and drink it down. It tastes good and has none of the dangerous side effects of a harsh laxative.

As always with health problems, prevention is the best way to go.
Eat more roughage " it is definitely wise," say's Dr, Ruth Peters, research scientist and professor of preventive medicine at the University of Southern California," for anyone with constipation to add fiber to their diet." Eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains that add rich fiber to your diet not only helps prevent constipation but also protects you from colon cancer according to Dr. Robert Goodlad of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund In London.

If you haven't been eating a lot of fiber, add it gradually to your daily diet so your system can adjust to it. Try to keep your fiber intake between 20 to 35 grams a day.

Next, get moving. You need to move your body to move your bowels. A simple walk around the block each day can help your digestive system work much more effectively.

Drink plent of water. This magic elixir Keeps the stool soft, which helps it move through your digestive tract. Drink at least 6 8 ounce glasses a day.
Be aware that coffee and tea are diuretics and cause your body to lose water so if you drink much of these liquids be sure to replenish by drinking more water. Milk is great but be aware that it can cause constipation in some people.

If you find that in spite of doing all the right things, that occasionally you still need a laxative, choose a mild one or an herbal alternative laxative to get you system moving again.
If you find that you need them regularly contact your doctor to rule out a blockage or other serous condition.

For more information on this topic contact

International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
P.O. Box 170864
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Phone: 1-888-964-2001 or 414-964-1799
Fax: 414-964-7176
Email: iffgd@iffgd.org

Source;
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

2 Information Way
Bethesda, MD 20892-3570
Phone: 1-800-891-5389
TTY: 1-866-569-1162
Fax: 703-738-4929
Email: nddic@info.niddk.nih.gov
Internet: www.digestive.niddk.nih.gov

International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
P.O. Box 170864
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Phone: 1-888-964-2001 or 414-964-1799
Fax: 414-964-7176
Email: iffgd@iffgd.org