|
Why am I so Constipated?
We will cover a variety of reasons why people become constipated in this segment. The following topics will be covered.
- Constipation and Milk Allergy
- Thyroid Problems
- Fiber
- Water Intake
Constipation and Milk Allergy
To begin with, we must first define what constipation is. Constipation is defined as a change in the number of bowel movements. Typically, we should have between 1-3 bowel movements daily. A decrease in the number of bowel movements would be considered as constipation.
In a study (1) done looking at the effect of cows' milk on the constipation of children, it was determined that children who regularly ingested milk had significantly higher rates of constipation. It was found that these children were intolerant to cows' milk protein, most since infancy. After removing cows' milk from the diet, constipation was significantly decreased. Re-introducing milk back into the diet increased the rate of constipation in the test subjects. It was concluded that ingesting milk regularly might play a significant role in promoting constipation.
Interestingly enough, cows' milk is commonly given as a supplement to infants and children of all ages by parents and caregivers. By doing so, we may in fact be setting these children up for a lifetime of digestive problems unknowingly and with the best of intentions in mind.
Fiber Intake
Regular fiber intake is crucial because fiber helps keep us regular through maintaining proper colon function. The colon is a muscle and like any other muscle needs exercise to keep it healthy and vital (non-sluggish). If the colon is sluggish, you may develop pouches in the wall of the intestines that develop into diverticulosis. If inflamed, these pouches can cause diverticulitis. In addition to exercising the colon, fiber also maintains proper movements of the colon (i.e. peristaltic contractions). These proper contractions are necessary to move the waste products through your intestines to be eliminated. Vegetables, fruits, wheat and corn all have a high fiber content and are essential in helping decrease constipation.
Thyroid Problems
If eliminating milk and increasing fiber are not solving the problem, it is very possible that you may have a low functioning thyroid. A normal functioning thyroid is critical because the thyroid regulates metabolic rates of the body including the colon. Thus if you have a sluggish thyroid, chances are that you will have a sluggish colon which contributes significantly to constipation. Of incidental note, mercury amalgams interfere with the production of thyroid hormones. Thus, if you still suspect the thyroid and have addressed the sluggish thyroid with little results, a mercury detoxification program may be necessary to allow for proper thyroid function which will in turn increase colon motility reducing constipation.
Water Intake
Water intake is crucial for many body functions. A mild decrease in water intake as little as decrease your metabolism by 3%. Proper metabolic function can significantly decrease constipation as well as decrease your chance of getting colon cancer.
|
