What is Constipation?
Constipation can be defined as less than three spontaneous bowel movements a week with infrequent, hard stools that may require straining and an incomplete sense of evacuation.
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Private Healthcare Navigation and Patient Advocacy when YOU need it most“Less than three spontaneous bowel movements a week, with infrequent, hard stools that may require straining and an incomplete sense of evacuation.”
Although you may think you should have a bowel movement daily, that is untrue. There is no "right" number, and almost everyone experiences constipation. Understanding the causes leads to prevention and a more comfortable way of living.
“There is no ’right’ number of bowel movements per day or week.”
Constipation is Common
More than 2.5 million Americans visit their physicians each year seeking relief from constipation. At any age, an acute change in your bowel habits warrants evaluation by your doctor.
Quality of Life
Quality of life is usually the main focus for constipation, especially if hemorrhoids or anal fissures (tears) become aggravated. Constipation should be treated with a high-fiber diet. Natural laxatives or enemas may be appropriate in addition to newer medications.
Listen to your Body
Behavioral changes and a high-fiber diet benefit many patients. Large amounts of fiber can cause bloating. Drinking mineral oil is not recommended.
Not all patients with constipation are alike. Speak with your healthcare provider, especially if your symptoms are new, severe, last longer than three weeks, or are associated with bleeding, weight loss, fevers, or overall weakness. Get screened for colorectal cancer if appropriate.
Summary Points
Eat more fiber.
Drink plenty of water, fruit and vegetable juices.
The goal should be 3-4 liters (not glasses) of water daily.
Get enough exercise.
Review your current medications with your doctor.
Allow yourself time to have a bowel movement.
Use laxatives only if a doctor says you should.
Magnesium may help if your doctor says you can try it.
Review your medications with your doctor.
Personally
I eat a high-fiber, mostly plant-based 🌱 diet, no red meat, drink 4 liters of water a day, exercise, and am focused on keeping nutrition simple. I am sharing what works for me and what I routinely recommend to my patients.
"Balance. Portion control. Keep nutrition simple. Eat Smart. Eat Healthy. 🌱 🌾 🌿"
Gut Health ➕ Patient Advocacy with Navigation ➕ Life Balance
If you were looking for information about Private Healthcare Navigation and Patient Advocacy from Executive Health NavigationClick here for Executive Health Navigation✴ Connect with Dr. Dooreck on LinkedIn, where he focuses his sharing on Health, Diet, Nutrition, Exercise, Lifestyle, and Balance.
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