Constipation can kill

5 reasons you aren't pooping enough :

Poop is a great overall indicator of your health, and can give you early clues that things are not right.

So, what exactly is poop? Well, 75% of poop is water, and the remainder comprises:

-Dead bacteria that helped to digest our food, live bacteria, fats, fibre,waste material from food, cholesterol, cellular linings, protein, salts, substances released from the liver, including mucus

The perfect poop is generally shaped like a snake, golden brown in colour, one to two inches in diameter and 18 inches long. It should have only a slight odour.

Along with general appearance, regularity is also of utmost importance when speaking of a healthy digestive system. Most agree that one to three bowel movements a day is healthy.

Pooping four times a day or more is generally referred to as diarrhoea (stools may have a liquid consistency or be super soft). Pooping less than two or three times a week is referred to as constipation (stools may be hard and dry and difficult to pass).

Dangers of constipation

Yes, constipation is a nuisance, but it certainly is more than that, and should command our attention when it occurs. The truth is that constipation is at the root of some very serious medical conditions, including colorectal cancer.

The colon was designed to hold only a small amount of faeces in transit, and when faecal matter does not move through the body efficiently, the colon can end up holding up to twenty pounds or more of toxic faeces.

Constipation may also be a sign of a condition known as dysbacteriosis - this is where the normal gut flora is dead or missing. Healthy gut flora is necessary to protect the colon from pathogens that cause inflammation. It also produces B and K-vitamins that are necessary for blood clotting, and protects immunity. In addition, bacteria help to keep stools soft and moist.

Constipation can have a negative impact on genitourinary health - mostly in women, because the large intestine and female reproductive organs are so close together. Potential problems include excessive pressure on the uterus, faecal incontinence, and even miscarriage brought about by straining.

Failure to defecate on a regular basis can also interfere with cardiovascular, endocrine, and immune system functioning. In fact, it has been shown that chronic constipation can actually kill you. That's right, bearing down to have a bowel movement can cause fatal heart arrhythmia in some people.

What causes constipation?

To rectify a problem it is essential to know its roots - what exactly causes constipation? There are many reasons why irregularity and constipation occur.

If you are suffering, take a look at the nine reasons below to see if one or more may be causing you to back up.

Antacids

Are you a heavy user of antacids? Many of these over-the-counter, so-called heartburn remedies contain aluminium, which can cause constipation. A better idea is to use a natural acid reflux reliever such as apple cider vinegar. Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water (about six ounces), and drink before meals to ease heartburn.

Stress

Stress impacts the body in a number of very negative ways, including causing a flight or fight reaction that may result in constipation. In addition, people who experience stress on a regular basis often consume a nutrient void diet - which can compromise proper digestive function.

High blood pressure medications

There are a number of different side effects of high blood pressure medications - constipation being one of them. If you suffer from constipation and are taking these meds, you may want to speak to your healthcare practitioner regarding a healthier alternative. In addition, there are several foods that are known for having a positive impact on blood pressure regulation, including beet juice, raw garlic and black tea.

Dehydration

If you drink very little water, your stools are likely to be hard and difficult to pass. Not consuming enough water for an extended period of time can prompt chronic constipation. Some health practitioners say to aim for at least ten glasses a day, while others recommend half of your body weight in ounces.

Too much dairy

It has been found that too much dairy can cause constipation - especially in children. If you consume a lot of dairy and meat, but relatively little fibre, it may be slowing down your digestion. Be sure you are eating a diet that includes plenty of fresh vegetables and healthy fats, like those found in olive and coconut oil.

While there may be other reasons for constipation - these are a good place to start. Once your body begins to rebalance itself your digestive woes should be a thing of the past. Of course, if your constipation is severe or you are experiencing other symptoms, be sure to see your health practitioner.

- The Alternative Daily