GENERAL INFO ABOUT CONSTIPATION
If you have problems with your bowel movement (less than thrice a week) then you are suffering from constipation. If you have this disorder then you will notice that the stool, which you pass out, is normally dry, solid and smaller in size. Moreover, you will have problems in passing out the stool.
There are some people who are of the opinion that if they do not pass out stool everyday then they are suffering from constipation. This is not true. If a person eliminates stool thrice a week then he or she is said to have a normal bowel movement.
Constipation is not a disease but it is just a symptom. Usually, women and people over the age of 65 years are more prone to constipation. Women who are pregnant may also suffer from constipation.
The large intestine or colon absorbs water from the food that we eat and it forms stool or waste product. When the water is absorbed in excess by the colon, it will cause constipation, as the stool will become hard and dry.
CAUSES
Some of the ordinary causes of constipation are as follows: - Fiber: If a person does not in take enough fiber in his or her diet then they are more prone to this symptom. Consume a lot of vegetables and fruits, as they are high in fiber. - Water: Those who do not have the habit of drinking a lot of water can also suffer from constipation. Water makes the stool softer and easier to pass and if you are suffering from constipation then you should drink large amount of water. - Medications: Taking certain medications can also cause constipation in a person. Some of these medications include antidepressants, diuretics, medications for pain, medications for blood pressure, antacids that has calcium and aluminum, antiparkinson drug and so on. - Certain diseases: There are certain diseases, which can lead to constipation in a person. Such diseases include metabolic and endocrine disorder, neurological disorders and so on. - Ignorance: If you overlook the urge to have a bowel movement then you might develop the habit of not passing out stool regularly. This will lead to constipation.
AYURVEDIC REMEDIES
Some of the ayurvedic remedies for constipation are: - Triphala churna is an ordinary ayurvedic medicine, which can be taken if you are suffering from constipation. Take a teaspoon of this powder and mix it in a glass of milk or warm water. Drink this mixture before going to bed. - Before you go to sleep at night, drink a glass of warm milk. You can add two teaspoon of castor oil in it if you have a sever constipation. - Make a mixture of lemon juice and water. Drink this twice or thrice a day.
YOGA ASANAS
One effective tool, which you can undertake to get rid of constipation, is yoga asanas. Some of the asanas, which will be of great use, are: - Supta Vajrasana. - Ardha Matsyendrasana. - Trikonasana. - Bhujanghasana.