Constipation is a common clinical symptom, rather than a disease. It mainly refers to a decrease in bowel movements, a decrease in stool volume, dry and hard stool, and difficulty in defecation. It is necessary to judge whether there is constipation based on the characteristics of the stool, the usual defecation habits, and the presence or absence of difficulty in defecation. If it lasts for more than 6 months, it is considered chronic constipation. So, what should we do?
Treatment of Gastrointestinal Constipation
1. Local irritant laxatives: Inserting glycerin/sodium chloride (glycerin enema), glycerin suppositories, etc. into the rectum can induce the urge to defecate and trigger the defecation reflex. This is called a local irritant laxative and is more effective for patients with chronic outlet obstruction constipation.
2. Stimulant laxatives: Also known as contact laxatives, these laxatives have a stimulating effect on the intestinal mucosa and affect the absorption of water and electrolytes in the intestines, resulting in a strong laxative effect. Rhubarb, senna leaves, and aloe vera, which are plant-based laxatives, contain anthraquinone glycosides. Anthraquinones are only activated in the intestines by bacteria, and then they exert their laxative effect. Prolonged use of strong stimulant laxatives can cause dependence on the drug. In addition, long-term use can also lead to melanosis coli. Magnesium sulfate and other salt laxatives, which have a strong stimulating effect on the intestines, can also be classified into this category.
3. Stool softeners: These are surfactants that can easily mix fats and water in the stool and increase intestinal secretion. Sodium dodecyl sulfate (calcium), which is usually taken orally, is not absorbed but can increase the absorption of other substances. Due to its hepatotoxicity, it can only be used for 1-2 weeks and is not suitable for chronic constipation.
What to Eat to Treat Gastrointestinal Constipation
1. Foods rich in plant-based lactobacillus such as kimchi and fermented soy sauce Lactobacillus has the effect of adjusting the intestinal environment and eliminating constipation. However, lactobacillus can be divided into animal-based and plant-based types, and the latter can prevent constipation. This is because plant-based lactobacillus is more resistant to acidic environments, can survive in the intestines and exert its effects, and its survival rate in the intestines is 10 times that of animal-based lactobacillus.
2. Foods rich in magnesium such as sesame and almonds Research has shown that a lack of magnesium intake in the body can cause constipation. Magnesium has a mild laxative effect and can soften the stool, so moderate intake can help with bowel movements. Foods rich in magnesium include peanuts, brown rice, walnuts, and bananas.
3. Fruits that help with defecation - Apples: Take 1-2 apples on an empty stomach in the morning and evening for several consecutive days to treat heat-induced constipation. - Bananas: Eat 500g of bananas before meals once a day, 1-2 times a day, for several consecutive days. This is effective for heat-induced constipation. - Pears: Pears have the effects of moistening the intestines, promoting diuresis, and lowering blood pressure. They can be eaten in moderation to prevent constipation, especially suitable for patients with hypertension and constipation. - Strawberries: Strawberries not only contain rich vitamins but also contain pectin, which can moisturize the body, regulate the stomach and intestines, lower blood lipids, and prevent constipation. - Grapefruit: Grapefruit can moisturize the intestines, lower blood lipids, and lower blood pressure. Proper consumption has a laxative effect.
Tips for Treating Gastrointestinal Constipation
1. Plum juice Studies have shown that drinking natural plum juice can effectively promote intestinal peristalsis, increase the frequency of bowel movements, and alleviate or prevent constipation. Many scientists have conducted extensive research and experiments on the function of plum juice in relieving constipation. Although the explanations for the reasons are different, the results have all proved the unique efficacy of plum juice in relieving constipation, which cannot be compared to any other food.
2. Konjac + honey Use a juicer to extract the juice from konjac, cook it in a pot over low heat until it thickens, and then transfer it to a container. Mix it with cool honey (honey can be divided into cool and hot). Take two spoonfuls on an empty stomach every morning. This treatment can effectively relieve long-standing constipation.
3. Drink a glass of cold water in the morning Drink cold water after waking up in the morning. Drinking 2-3 glasses of cold water in the morning can alleviate constipation. This is because cold water entering the stomach triggers the gastrocolic reflex, initiating colonic peristalsis. When constipated, water is absorbed by the body, resulting in dry and hard stools. Drinking cold water replenishes the insufficient water in the stool.
