ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Constipation: A silent health concern
Nobody likes to talk about their bowel habits. It’s a “nasty” subject. But if you don’t talk about it, or don’t know what is healthy, or what to do about it, then you may ignore important signs that your body is trying to communicate, potentially leading to discomfort, health complications, and a lower quality of life. Medically defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week, constipation is characterized by hard, dry, or lumpy stools that are difficult to pass. While occasional constipation is normal, chronic cases can lead to serious complications.
The causes of constipation are diverse and multifaceted. Dietary factors play a crucial role, including low fiber intake, insufficient water consumption, excess processed foods, insufficient fats and high dairy intake. Lifestyle issues such as stress, physical inactivity, travel, and ignoring the urge to defecate can also contribute. Medical conditions like IBS, pelvic floor dysfunction, diabetes, neurological disorders, hypothyroidism, and intestinal obstructions are associated with constipation. Additionally, certain medications (pain relievers, some hypertension meds, antacids, antidepressants, antihistamines, and chronic laxative use), hormonal changes, aging, and gut microbiome imbalances can exacerbate the problem.
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