Constipation

Constipation is difficulty passing stools or the passage of hard dry stools infrequently. Bowel motions are an important mechanism the body utilises to excrete wastes and toxins. Blockage of this mechanism can lead to many complications such as appendicitis, body odour, bad breath, depression, fatigue, flatulence, headaches, indigestion, malabsorption, obesity and varicose veins.

Causes: inadequate fibre intake in the diet, inadequate exercise, old age, muscle dysfunction, structural abnormality of the colon, drugs (e.g. iron supplements, antidepressants), bowel disease, habitual use of laxatives, kidney failure, diabetes, metabolic disturbances and neurogenic disorders.

Who to consult: Dietician, GP, herbalist, naturopath.