by cherylk » 12 Sep 2010, 22:24
This really isn't a link for Web MD link, but I just read this info in my latest edition of Bottom Line Health:
The article is entitled, "Constipation: What Your Doctor May Not Tell You"
Best fruits--peaches, pears, cherries, and apples (or apple juice)
Best vegetables to ease constipation--broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower and cabbage
Drink at least 2 quarts of fluids daily--water is best
Avoid laxatives--Stimulant laxatives, such as Dulcolax and castor oil cause the intestinal muscles to stretch and weaken with continued use. People who use these products frequently may become dependent--they can't have a bowel movement without them.
Dyssynergic defectation is a type of constipation whereby different parts of the anorectal area contract and relax at the wrong time. GI docs often use biofeedback to help patients learn to relax and contract different parts of the anorectal area. I'll post biofeedback info on another thread!!