Overindulgence is common during the holidays, what with several parties and get-togethers. But overeating, coupled with lack of exercise, may lead to constipation or worsen the condition.
According to National Health Services UK, constipation is common and affects people of all ages. There are five ways to know if a person has it, first is if they move their bowels less than three times a week.
The second common sign is when moving bowels has become painful and the stool is dry and dark. According to the Bristol Stool Chart, if the stool is hard to pass, lumpy, and shaped like nuts, it’s a sign of constipation. Experts say the stool of a person with a healthy digestive system has cracks on the surface and is smooth and soft—but not too soft as soft stools bordering on being almost liquid is a sign of other health issues.
Being flatulent or always gassy can also be a sign of constipation, as having stored feces makes it difficult for a constipated person to pass gas normally. Further, blood in stool can also be a sign of this condition. Having bloody stools can be caused by anal fissures resulting from hard bowel movement. But it can also mean there is bleeding somewhere in the digestive tract. When this happens, it is best to have it checked by a doctor.
Constipation may require individuals to take laxatives to move their bowels. Laxatives stimulate the lining of the intestine to haste the stool’s journey through the colon. They also help increase stool’s hydration.
Taking laxatives is not considered an unhealthy habit, as there is no evidence that the use of stimulant laxatives leads to serious health problems.
The country’s leading laxative, Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) helps individuals suffering from constipation be in control of their life by helping them poop regularly. Visit www.dulcolax.com for more information.