Constipation is a very common condition that most of us have experienced from time to time. For simple constipation, there are three basic things that can influence regular bowel motions. They are: Fluid, Fibre, and Activity.
Good hydration makes everything in our body work better; we feel more alert and have more energy, all because the body has one of its most essential components in good supply. The large intestine has developed to remove water from the stool as a way of helping to maintain our hydration levels. If you have constipation, always ensure you are drinking enough good hydrating fluids. Checking your hydration level is as simple as noting the colour of your urine. It should be a light straw colour. Adjust your fluid intake according to your observations.
Fibre from the diet is essential in producing the bulk in the stool and to assist its passage. Fibre comes in two forms, soluble and insoluble, and we need a mix of both to keep things moving. Adequate fibre, in conjunction with good hydration, are the best of friends. Some of the foods to think about incorporating everyday into your meals are oats, linseeds, green leafy vegetables, leeks, onions and garlic. If you want a little gentle help, try soaking 1 to 2 tsp of cracked linseeds in a glass of room temperature water overnight. Drink this in the morning, followed by another glass of water.
Last but by no means least, is activity. The body expects to move and it incorporates this expectation as part of the natural function of the digestive tract. So to help things along from start to finish, keep as active as you are able to be, be it walking, or a workout at the gym.
Used together, these three tips can really help to get things ‘moving’ once more.
See your health professional for personalised advice.
This tip comes to you from Nutritional Therapist, Simon Bradley.
CNM Ireland’s Dublin Open Day on 6th September will be packed with fabulous top tips on different topics, and speakers who will inspire you about the power of natural health.
