Constipation
Natural Help For This Distressing Problem
Constipation can include any of the following: difficulty passing stool, incomplete passage of stool or less than one bowel movement per day. Even with daily bowel movements, the bowels may still be toxic. Since the bowels eliminate toxins and waste products, and it is important for good health to maintain regular bowel movements.
Diet And Lifestyle
- Eat a diet high in fiber (Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes). Use a fiber supplement if necessary. (See "Primary Support," below).
- Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily (simple dehydration is a common cause of constipation).
- Exercise regularly. Exercise stimulates normal propulsive movements of the colon.
- Do not suppress the urge to have a bowel movement.
- Avoid prolonged use of irritant laxatives. They can cause dependence. Natural laxatives improve peristaltic action and do not cause dependence when used correctly.
Primary Support
- Fiber: Maxi Fiber, 1 teaspoon, 2-3 times per day, OR Fiber Formula: 12 caps per day.
- Similase digestive aid, 2 caps, 3 times per day with meals.
- 3-A Magnesia: 6 tablets at bedtime. May use up to 12 tabs as needed. This is NOT a stimulant laxative and does not encourage dependence.
Additional Support
- Vitamin C: (for "quick action") High doses of vitamin C will effectively loosen the bowels. The "bowel tolerance" dose is different for every individual. Begin with 1-6 tsps. of Buffered Vitamin C powder taken in water or juice. Take an additional 1,000 mg every two hours until bowel movements are initiated. The following day, decrease the total dose by 1,000mg total. Continue for three days.
- For chronic constipation, follow the Health Priority Protocol for a Healthy Colon, found on page 9 of the Holistic Health Handbook.
- Support any organ system that scored "high" on the self-appraisal questionnaire. Digestive function & liver are likely imbalances. Also take the "Lifestyle" questionnaire, page 2 of the Holistic Health Handbook. Imbalances in diet and insufficient water or exercise contribute to constipation.
Dr. Myatt's Comment
If your doctor tells you that less than one bowel movement per day is "normal," consult an alternative medicine physician for further assistance. Constipation contributes to general physical toxicity due to the reabsorption of toxins into the bloodstream. The "old docs" used to say that "death begins in the colon." If your self-help measures fail to bring relief in four weeks, get help. Good bowel eliminations are central to good health!
