CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION

Ignoring Bowel Cues

A bowel cue is the urge to evacuate a bowel movement. Many individuals have ignored their cues for so long that their bodies no longer generate cues. If a client is still having cues, they may be ignoring some or all of them.

The gastrointestinal tract has many reflexes built in. These reflexes, or nerve circuits, are responsible for sending messages to the brain alerting us to prepare for a bowel movement. This sensation may be felt as a grumbling, a cramp, or a pressure sensation.

Bowel cues are initiated by stretch receptors that line the entire gastrointestinal tract. These receptors are stretched as digested food moves past them. From this, peristalsis (wavelike contractions) is initiated. These contractions should ultimately result in a bowel movement.

ALETRIS colon hydrotherapists work with each client to re-train both the body and mind to respond to bowel cues.

Medications

Constipation is a common side effect of many prescription and over the counter medications. If your medication is causing your constipation, we may recommend that you set up an appointment with an ALETRIS physician to discuss suitable alternatives.

Laxative Use

Many individuals turn to laxatives in an attempt to address their constipation. Unfortunately, laxative use actually worsens constipation in the long-term by causing dehydration and dependence. It is possible to retrain a bowel that is dependent on laxatives. ALETRIS therapists will customize a treatment plan to move you away from laxative dependence and toward optimal bowel health.

Poor Diet

A poor diet is one that is high in processed foods, dairy and meat, and low in fresh fruits and vegetables, good fats and whole grains. Without necessary fiber, the bowel will not function efficiently. Your therapisy may recommend diet modification and supplementation to improve your bowel function.

Lack of Exercise

Exercise is critical to the proper function of the body and mind, including the bowel. Individuals who do not exercise at least 30 minutes per day have fewer bowel movements and experience decreased energy.

Insufficient Water Intake

Proper hydration is ciritical to our survival and necessary for optimal bowel health.