Causes of Constipation

There is a definite relationship between the causes of constipation and weight gain.

There is nothing more exhausting than sitting on the throne for what seems like an eternity, only to surrender to a simple task left undone.

When this happens we are forced to go through the day carrying around those extra internal pounds which are usually accompanied by stomach discomfort and bloating.

You may have this condition if you experience the following: 

• have three or fewer bowel movements in a week
• the stool is hard and dry
• if stools are difficult to pass and/or painful
• bowel still feels full after bowel movement
• feeling bloated


This happens because food is moving slower than it should through the large intestine.

That is why some people enjoy the art of food combining as it offers speedier digestion times and facilitates weight loss.

Most people experience constipation at one time or another, but usually life style changes and eating more healthy foods can help alleviate symptoms.

Causes of Constipation and Treatments

Diet

Typically a poor diet is the main cause. This is usually caused by insufficient amounts of daily fiber and fluid intake.

Sources of fiber are found in plant foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains that the body cannot digest adding the bulk we need for proper digestion. 

The variety of these foods in plentiful and most supermarkets also stock a variety of organic foods as well.

Try adding some Holy Crap Cereal to some of your meals and avoid unnecessary sugars and junk foods which offer little or no health benefis.

Two Types of Fiber and How They Help

Soluble fiber dissolves easily in water and takes on a soft texture which helps to soften the stools.

Insoluble fiber passes through the intestines almost unchanged which adds bulk to stools and helps stimulate bowel movements.

Minimize the amount of refined, processed or junk foods from your diet. These foods have been stripped of their natural fiber.

Try to Avoid Dehydration

Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.  

Healthy fluids that are recommended are:

The above listed fluids will help hydrate the body, eliminate toxins and can provide a multitude of health benefits.

Liquids make bowel movements easier to pass because adding fluid to the colon adds bulk to stools making them softer.

Avoid colas, coffee and alcoholic drinks as these beverages can act as a diuretic, which means they pull water out of the cells and body, leading to more frequent urination, leaving your body even less hydrated.

If these types of beverages are consumed, try to drink even more water than usual so you can counteract their effects.

A healthy diet can relieve constipation and help with weight loss.

Two Easy and Delicious Remedies to Help Relieve the Causes of Constipation:

Homemade Soups

It seems too simple to be true, doesn't it?

Try to incorporate a good amount of homemade soups into your diet, especially the ones that contain vegetables or legumes.

Not only are they a good source of fiber but they are high in water content too. Consider this the perfect combination when battling constipation.

This is going to sound nutty but it is not unusual in my family to enjoy a bowl of soup for breakfast.   It can offer a perfect start to the day as it is filling yet easy and fast to digest.

What the heck, I just thought I would throw that one out there because many people who have tried it like it. 

Holy Crap Cereal

This cereal is truly the most amazing breakfast cereal in the world and was developed to help treat constipation, hence the name Holy Crap.

It was introduced on the show called the Dragon’s Den and became an overnight sensation.

No surprise really as its three main ingredients make it a rich source of omega 3 essential fatty acids, protein, fiber, antioxidants, nutrients and more.

It's really easy to use as it requires no cooking what so ever.

I just take a good size tablespoon of the stuff and mix it with yogurt and presto you instantly have breakfast or a mid day snack in seconds.

Now that's what I call healthy fast food.

If you can't find this product at your local health food store than here is a recipe to make your own Holy Crap Cereal. 

Some Causes of Constipation are Medications

Some medications add to the causes of constipation are:

Exercise

Exercise helps by stimulating the natural contraction of the intestinal muscles which helps move stools out quicker.  

There are many exercise choices that are fun, simple and safe that you can add to your busy schedule.

Try to include 20 – 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

Causes of Constipation During Pregnancy

It is a common problem during pregnancy and symptoms can usually be relieved by increasing fiber and fluid intake

This happens because the growing uterus can put pressure on the rectum. Then there are pregnancy hormones to deal with, which can slow down the movement of food in the digestive tract. Iron pills can also add to the problem.

Do not take any herbs or over the counter laxatives without first consulting your doctor or health care practitioner. Some of these laxatives may cause contractions.  

Overuse of Laxatives

Reasons people use laxatives is mainly to help relieve themselves of body waste. Some believe it is an easy way to help achieve weight loss. Laxatives should not be used as a weight loss tool.

Typically what happens is the person must increase the dose over time and the body becomes reliant on laxatives in order to have a bowel movement.

The outcome is laxative dependency.

Prevention is Easier than Treatment:

Enjoy a sensible diet which contains lots of fruits, vegetables and fiber

Wishing you health and happiness

Return from the Causes of Constipation to Healthy Weight Loss Diet

Return to Lentil Soup Recipe

Return to Healthy Weight Loss Help