subject: Some Common Misconceptions About Constipation [print this page] Constipation happens to everyone and yet, there are those who do not know too much about it. Learning about constipation is essential to preventing it from happening, or to treating it once it has happened. Since there are a lot of myths abound regarding constipation, it is important to separate fact from fiction and to determine which of the information we often receive are true. Here are some popular misconceptions about constipation that should be corrected.
1. Constipation is not something to worry about, as it can easily be treated.
While it is true that constipation is easily prevented or treated, the bad effects that it can cause should certainly not be underestimated. Constipation is a sign that the digestive system is not working properly, or that it is having difficulties coping with the eating schedule. If this is so, it is best to correct it as soon as possible by setting a daily eating schedule and following it. This way, the digestive system will have a routine that coincides with the persons daily habits.
Constipation may also be a symptom of other more serious illnesses, so if a person is experiencing severe constipation, it is best to have it checked. Conversely, recurring constipation can also cause serious illnesses, if it happens often enough. When it gets to this level, it is much more difficult to treat.
2. Grains are good for digestion, so wheat-based food can help prevent constipation.
It is commonly known that food that contains fiber is great for digestion. Since whole grains and cereals have plenty of fiber, many people assume that wheat-based food can help facilitate digestion, and therefore helps in treating constipation. However, people may be surprised to find that the opposite is true. Wheat-based food can in fact cause constipation. Along with other types of food such as fried and processed food, the intake of wheat-based food should be minimized, if not avoided completely. Examples of the food that should be avoided are cakes, cheese, chips, cookies, dried beans, ice cream, instant mashed potatoes, milk, pastries, pizza, and red meat.
3. Laxatives make the digestive system function better.
People who experience constipation sometimes resort to laxatives to alleviate their discomfort. While laxatives do help in facilitating bowel movement, they may lead to adverse effects. One is dependency. If laxatives are used often enough, the digestive system may have a difficult time functioning without them. Another negative effect is that since laxatives work immediately upon consumption, they can disturb and upset the digestive systems natural schedule of processing food. This can lead to more instances of constipation in the future.
Before taking any kind of medication, it is best to exhaust all other natural means. Also, a person should be aware that there is a difference between constipation and the natural schedule that is followed by the body. For instance, some people do not have daily bowel movements, and to a certain extent, this is normal. It is only considered constipation if it happens less than three times a week. This is the only time that the use of laxatives should be considered.
