Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal problem and everyone experience it at least once in their life. It is a symptom and not a disease. Some people think that if they do not have bowel movement everyday they are constipated. However bowel movement can be three times a day to three times a week depending on the person and his lifestyle.
When bowel movement is less than three times a week and stool is hard, small and dry and person experience pain, strain, bloating or feeling of incomplete evacuation during or after bowel movement then the person is constipated. Lack of appetite, bloated stomach even after a small meal and heartburn with lack of bowel movements are symptoms of constipation. Most of the constipation is temporary and not serious and it is a common problem with pregnant women and after child birth.
Constipation can be caused by many reasons related to lifestyle, diet, infections, medication etc. Constipation occurs when colon absorbs too much water or movement of bowel through colon is slow. Lack of fiber in the diet is very common cause as people are getting more inclined towards fast and processed food. Intake of diet high on fats and carbohydrates and low on fiber cause slow and sluggish bowel movements. An adult should consume at least 25-30 gm of fiber in a day.
Medicines are other most common causes of constipation, commonly used medicines like antacids, pain killers and diuretics may cause constipation. Medicines for blood pressure, anti-depressants and iron supplements also promote constipation. Over use of laxatives also cause constipation as people use them indiscriminately which makes the system dependent on outside support for bowel movement.
Slow metabolism due to age, pregnancy or change in daily routine also causes constipation. It has been noted that people suffer from constipation while they were on the bed rest due to some other disease or illness. Age normally slows down the metabolism rate of the body and may lead to constipation too. Lesser intake of liquids cause dehydration which may also hinder the smooth bowel movement as stool gets dry while passing through the colon. However liquids like coffee and tea shall be avoided during constipation.
Intestinal problems are serious and cause chronic constipation and needs special attention and treatment to cure them. Problems with colon and rectum or weak muscles of anus and rectum slow down the bowel movement as they are responsible for stool evacuation. Some people suffer from structural problems of anus and rectum by birth which also causes chronic constipation.
Triphala powder is an ayurvedic medicine used since ages for improving digestion. Triphala supplement is made up of three fruits 'haritaki', 'baheda' and 'amla' and comes in powder form. It treats constipation magically and also other diseases and problems for better health. Triphala can be used by anyone and helps in curing viral and bacterial infections along with improving intestinal contractions for strong digestion. It contains anthraquinones and good bacteria which are natural digestion enhancers. It is also very helpful in colon cleansing, promoting tissue growth, controlling fat, activating slow metabolism, expelling stones from urinary tract. It works as a good body rejuvenator.
