Constipation is a condition in which bowel movements are as infrequent as once a week or more. When one is constipated, stools are hard, dry, or lumpy and unusually large. Stools are also difficult or painful to pass. Other times, not all stool have been passed.
It’s usually caused by a lack of exercise, insufficient liquid intake, little or no fibre in the diet and irritable bowel syndrome.
Some of the symptoms of being severely constipated include:
- That feeling of a blocked rectum.
- Straining hard and feeling pain when passing out stools.
- A full and heavy tummy.
- Less than 3 bowel movements in a week.
- Very hard, dry and unusually large stools.
Treatment
Contrary to what many say and think, eating a high-fiber diet doesn’t always help. If anything at all, it worsens the situation.
Here are some things that work for me.
- Drinking plenty of water is a given but very warm water (at least 3 glasses) with a pinch or 2 of salt, and a rich squeeze of lemon on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning has proven to not only refresh but is also sure to send you straight to the loo withinn 30mins after taking it.
- Pineapple, either whole or as juice is a lifesaver. I don’t know what it is about pineapple but it not only gets you to the loo, it makes sure you get all the bad boys out, leaving nothing behind.
- Coffee. At least 2 cups of coffee has been said to cause these movements within the walls of the intestine that helps push out every obstacle, sending one straight to the loo and leaving you feeling so light, you’d think you could fly.
- A teaspoon of the really nasty tasting castor oil in a glass of warm water before going to bed, ensures you have a bowel movement within 30 mins of rising in the morning.
- A tablespoon of olive oil on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning, is also said to cause a contraction of stomach muscles that would push the bad boy out. I don’t have a personal experience with these oils but those who tried it, vouch strongly for it.
- Exercises also do the magic, especially walking, running, pilates and yoga. All those contortions at ridiculous angles have a way of massaging everywhere at the same time, even your endocrine glands are not left out. Many times after a 30 mins yoga routine, I get the strong urge to leads me straight for the loo.
- Enemas. Not many people like this, but it’s a very common practice where I come from. Coffee enemas are the best and they completely clear up the colon. A clean colon makes you younger and helps you live a longer, fuller life.
Stomach disorders are a very common issue with adults and it gets worse with constipation as we age. These methods are natural, healthy and efficient. There’s also the release of natural collagen in the blood stream with every bowl movement.
I think the best time to have a major bowel movement is just before bedtime. Cos that way, you’re sure to sleep like a baby. Sleeping with an empty stomach is pure bliss and healthy for the body.
- Joy Mfon Essien is an Entrepreneur and the CEO, of Discover Essence Media, Millionaire Woman Soapworks and Delicioso Foods. Writer, TV presenter and producer, Wellness Coach and mom of two.
