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Constipation myths and facts are addressed by GI experts who share proper digestion advice.
Constipation is a common disorder that is experienced by people of all ages without discriminating between sex and social status. It is usually perceived by many as an inconsequential annoyance that may, however, compromise a patient’s overall well-being. The month of November has been chosen as and is known as the World Constipation Month, which is aimed at increasing people’s awareness of this problem along with presenting misconceptions associated with it.
Myth 1: You Must Have a Bowel Movement Every Day
Fact: Thus this is a common misconception. Everyone has their own way of doing bowel movements. Some people defecate many times a day and others have bowel movements in a few days or a week. The key here is frequency, and how often you are able to have bowel movements.
Myth 2: Constipation is too confined to only elder people
Fact: Although it is seen with greater frequency in the elderly primarily because their activity level is comparatively low and changes to diet and the use of medication, it can affect anybody from childhood onward.
Myth 3: All Forms of Constipation are due to Low-Fiber Diets
Fact: Although fibrosis is one of the well known causes, constipation may be caused by a number of factors including:
- Dehydration: There are various causes that could leave someone with constipation but a major one is taking a lot of fluid in our body.
- Medications: Some of the drugs that many people use to help them treat pain, depression among other ailments have constipation as an outcome.
- Medical Conditions: Such diseases as IBS, hypothyroidism, diabetes can also cause constipation;
- Lack of Physical Activity: The bowel movements are encouraged through the daily exercises.
Myth 4: Laxatives are If there is one thing that people always come to, it is laxatives.
Fact: Laxatives are used to help relieve the symptoms but if taken in large amounts or for a long time will only worsen the situation because you will become dependent on it. The patient should be treated for the cause of the constipation and every effort should be made to avoid the use of medications.
Healthy bowel movement: How to promote it?
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- Increase Fiber Intake: Instead, learn to slowly add more of these high fibre foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grain.
- Stay Hydrated: It is recommended to have as many cups of water per day as possible.
- Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Exercise increases the movements of the bowels.
- Manage Stress: Stress and particularly chronic stress has proven to affect digestion.
- Establish a Regular Routine: It is advised to attempt regularity in the eating pattern, that means having meals during certain and specific parts of the day and trying different schedules of bathroom routine.
- Listen to Your Body: Do not accept it if your body is telling you that it needs to defecate.
When to Consult a Doctor
Any indications of chronic constipation, sharp severe abdomen pain, rectum bleeding or major shifts in bowels a patient should seek medical attention.
Conclusion
As much as World Constipation Month is a reminder, it is also a reminder on a matter that we rarely remember always needs attention. There are various myths, which are myths to different people and it will help you understand that you should be physically active and eat reasonable portions of healthy foods to have a better digestion system and become a healthier person.
