Constipation has happened to us all. Sometimes things just don’t move the way they should. When it happens, you can feel uncomfortable, bloated, or downright sick. Constipation is inconvenient at the very least, and if you deal with constipation chronically, it can start to affect your quality of life.
This blog will focus on what constipation is and what you can do about it using alternative treatments. CW Rehab wants to help you get things back to normal so you can get on with your life. We’ve put together a list of seven alternative remedies for constipation.
What is constipation?
As uncomfortable as it can be, constipation is extremely common. According to the CDHF, one in four Canadians suffers from constipation, old and young alike:
“Constipation means infrequent or difficult bowel movements. It often occurs when digested food moves too slowly through the digestive tract. As a result, the body removes (absorbs) too much water from the stools, causing them to become hard, dry, and difficult to pass.”
What causes constipation?
From diet to dehydration, there are several contributing factors that hold true for children and adults. What you put into your body directly influences the regularity of your bowel movements:
- Low fibre diet
- Medications such as antidepressants or opioids
- Dehydration
- Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes
- Spinal malalignment
- Stress
How can I naturally relieve constipation?
Laxatives may work in a pinch, but they won’t do anything to help address the root cause of constipation. Consider taking an alternative approach!
- Book an acupuncture session
According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH): “Meta-analysis indicated that acupuncture for chronic functional constipation was probably as effective as conventional medical therapy in the change of bowel movements.” We offer expert acupuncture services that may relieve your constipation issues. - Drink more water!
How much water do you consume? While coffee can induce the urge, adding more water into your system will increase the likelihood of bringing on natural movements. - Get a massage
Abdominal massage and consultation with a massage therapist are recommended. Our on-site specialists are skilled in reflexology, trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage, and other techniques that can increase circulation and even improve digestion. - Consume probiotic foods
Look for Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, naturally occurring, beneficial bacteria that are great for gut health. Yogurt or Kimchi are reliable sources of probiotics as well. - Improve your posture
According to this study, not only can chiropractic visits make you go more frequently, they can soften your stool to make your movements less painful. Poor alignment can ripple through the body and cause a bevy of problems — constipation included! Our chiropractic care takes a “whole person” approach to healing our patients. Spinal corrections and gentle adjustments can make an enormous difference. - Exercise
A sedentary lifestyle is bad for all of your systems, and digestion is no exception. If you’re backed up, try to get a sweat going. If pain has caused you to give up an active life, consider meeting one of our experts to discuss physiotherapy. We can help get you back on track. - Add fibre to your diet
People don’t always make the best decisions when it comes to diet. Adding prunes, bananas, or leafy greens into your daily intake can help regulate your bowel movements without the need for a laxative.
We understand the literal blockage caused by chronic constipation can feel like a metaphorical blockage stopping you from moving forward. With the right services at CW Rehab, you can break through to a healthy tomorrow. Find relief through total body health. Book your appointment online here.