An In-depth Analysis Of The Precise Nutritional Treatment Plan For Chronic ConstipationⅠ
Nov 02, 2023
Most people experience constipation occasionally, but about 14 percent of adults suffer from chronic constipation. In this program, you'll learn about the causes of constipation and how diet and lifestyle changes can help promote regularity. This program will discuss the importance of gut microbes for digestive health and how probiotic and prebiotic supplements can help relieve constipation.
For some people, constipation can often be relieved by increasing fiber and fluid intake, as well as physical activity, without the need for stimulant laxatives. Others need to take a more aggressive approach and use natural interventions to empty their bowels.
Constipation is defined as infrequent bowel movements, usually less than three times per week, and difficulty in passing stools. Most people experience constipation occasionally, but about 14 percent of adults suffer from chronic constipation. Many people turn to laxatives, but these medications can cause dependence and troubling side effects.
Natural interventions are available to help relieve constipation, including effervescent magnesium and vitamin C, fiber, and probiotics.
Causes and risk factors
Impaired peristalsis (wavy contractions of the intestines)
Blockages, neurological and hormonal conditions, and medications such as opioids
Women (risk is two to three times greater than men) and older age (highest rates among people over 70)
diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on bowel habits, symptoms, and medical history. Rome III is a set of criteria for diagnosing functional gastrointestinal disorders, describing the diagnosis of chronic constipation as constipation for at least six months and specific symptoms (e.g., at least 25% straining during bowel movements) for at least three months, see here).
Conventional treatment
Adequate fluids and fiber are first-line treatments, and regular exercise is also an important intervention
Laxatives (osmotic and stimulant), suppositories and enemas
NOTE: Long-term use of stimulant laxatives may damage the colon's neuromuscular system, worsen constipation, and lead to dependence. They can also cause potentially dangerous electrolyte and fluid imbalances, especially when combined with diuretics.
Novel and Emerging Strategies
Fecal microbiota transplantation involves transferring colonic microbes from a healthy donor to a symptomatic person. Five case reports of patients with chronic constipation-predominant IBS treated with fecal microbiota transplantation describe immediate remission in all 5 cases and steady improvement on follow-up.
Biofeedback, a behavioral therapy in which patients learn to coordinate muscle movements, is superior to laxatives in several controlled clinical trials.
Neurotropin-3 is a growth factor produced by the body that may be able to combat age-related neurodegeneration in the gut, thereby helping relieve constipation.
Diet and Lifestyle Considerations
A diet containing 25 grams of fiber per day may increase bowel movements and reduce laxative use
Increasing fluid intake is an effective way to treat constipation and works best when used with fiber
Study finds plum, kiwi, olive, and flaxseed oils can improve bowel regularity
Increased physical activity has been shown to successfully improve chronic constipation
Nutrients
Probiotics: Probiotics containing Bifidobacterium lactis (B.lactis HN019) may shorten intestinal transit time, while Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus casei may have a positive effect on chronic constipation in adults.
Magnesium and Vitamin C: Both magnesium and vitamin C have been shown to promote intestinal emptying. Taking magnesium and vitamin C together may stimulate bowel movements.
Fiber and prebiotics: Soluble fiber supplements keep stools soft and easy to move and work as prebiotics, helping to establish and maintain good bacteria in the gut. Psyllium is rich in soluble fiber, which has been shown to relieve constipation. Other fiber supplements include inulin, partially hydrolyzed guar gum, and glucomannan.
Cascara Sagrada: The bark of the sea buckthorn tree, called Cascara sagrada, is traditionally used to treat constipation. Stimulant laxatives such as cascara bark may cause diarrhea and electrolyte loss, so they are usually recommended for short-term use only.
Natural Herbal Medicine For Relieving Constipation-Cistanche
Cistanche is a genus of parasitic plants that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. These plants are known for their medicinal properties and have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. Cistanche species are predominantly found in arid and desert regions of China, Mongolia, and other parts of Central Asia. Cistanche plants are characterized by their fleshy, yellowish stems and are highly valued for their potential health benefits. In TCM, Cistanche is believed to have tonic properties and is commonly used to nourish the kidney, enhance vitality, and support sexual function. It is also used to address issues related to aging, fatigue, and overall well-being. While Cistanche has a long history of use in traditional medicine, scientific research on its efficacy and safety is ongoing and limited. However, it is known to contain various bioactive compounds such as phenylethanoid glycosides, iridoids, lignans, and polysaccharides, which may contribute to its medicinal effects.
Wecistanche's cistanche powder, cistanche tablets, cistanche capsules, and other products are developed using desert cistanche as raw materials, all of which have a good effect on relieving constipation. The specific mechanism is as follows: Cistanche is believed to have potential benefits for relieving constipation based on its traditional use and certain compounds it contains. While scientific research specifically on Cistanche's effect on constipation is limited, it is thought to have multiple mechanisms that may contribute to its potential to relieve constipation. Laxative Effect: Cistanche has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a remedy for constipation. It is believed to have a mild laxative effect, which can help promote bowel movements and induce constipation. This effect may be attributed to various compounds found in Cistanche, such as phenylethanoid glycosides and polysaccharides. Moistening the Intestines: Based on traditional use, Cistanche is considered to have moisturizing properties, specifically targeting the Intestines. Promoting hydration and lubrication of the Intestines may help soften tools and facilitate easier passage, thereby relieving constipation. Anti-inflammatory Effect: Constipation can sometimes be associated with inflammation in the digestive tract. Cistanche contains certain compounds, including phenylethanoid glycosides and lignans, that are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in the intestines, it may help improve bowel movement regularity and relieve constipation.
