“Regular” People Have Less Pain

Chronic constipation is becoming more and more common among Americans. Chronic constipation can lead to many chronic pain conditions including nerve pain, headaches, muscle pain, abdominal pain, and serious immune system complications.

Being constipated is not just determined by the frequency of bowel movements. Constipation is passage of small amounts of hard, dry bowel movements, usually fewer than three times a week. People who are constipated may find it difficult and painful to have a bowel movement. Other symptoms of constipation include feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish.

When constipation becomes permanent it is often referred to as having Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Here’s a good way to better understanding the seriousness of chronic constipation:

Your intestines are designed to absorb nutrients from food that is broken down by the stomach. After the process is complete, there should only be waste left over. This waste may consist of food additives, chemicals, preservatives, and toxins. Since the absorbing part of your intestines does not have an off switch, the body may begin to absorb this waste if it cannot get rid of it in a timely manner. These toxins and by-products can make existing pain conditions such as arthritis, much worse. They can also cause chronic pain conditions to develop.

Chronic constipation is an acquired condition, usually caused by poor diet, medications, and lack of exercise. Here are some general recommendations to relieve or prevent chronic constipation:

Diet- Eat lots of fresh vegetables, fruits in season, and meats purchased at the butcher counter of your local grocery. Stay away from foods that are processed, or have added preservatives. Also avoid starches, grains, and ALL sugar.

Medications- Look closely at the side effects for the medications you take daily. Constipation is a common side effect for many medications. The top of the list is prescription pain medications and acid blockers.

Exercise- “Mobility leads to motility”. If you are moving, your bowels will move too. Make it a point to take a brisk walk every morning. If mornings are not good, do it in the afternoon. Get at least some exercise each and every day.

You may also try a natural laxative from a manufacturer you trust. Super-Lax is a great product we highly recommend.

While changing around your lifestyle, there are many natural ways to get things moving. Try a few tablespoons of castor oil, olive oil, or cod liver oil. Also, add insoluble fiber to your diet in the form of dark leafy vegetables, broccoli, and other vegetables.

Being regular can greatly reduce the amount of chronic pain you live with. If you are not in pain, but have chronic constipation, be patient… it’s coming! Preventing chronic constipation is easier than reversing it. Either way, you are the most important factor in your overall health.