Bowel Movement Problem
Have you ever paid attention to how many times a day you have a bowel movement? Do you go once a day, twice a day, and maybe 3 or 4 times in a week. Even though this is a very personal question, it is one that can save you a lot of discomfort and problems down the road.
Most people think that they have a bowel movement problem if they don't go everyday. If they don't go they think they have a problem with constipation and will start reaching for the laxatives. This is known as imaginary or misconceived constipation. Those who suffer from this think when they fail to go at least once a day, they are already constipated.
Constipation is usually a problem when there are unusually hard stools, a lot of strain to pass them and a lot of gas and feeling very bloated, this is when you have a bowel movement problem.
There are quite a few things someone can do to relieve the occasional constipation. You can get more physically active. Exercise brings health benefits not just for you heart, but for your digestion as well.
Also, stay well hydrated. Sometimes we are not drinking enough water and digestion requires moisture to pass the stool through the colon. If there are not enough fluids, then the stool is dry and will not pass through.
Drink at least 8 glasses a day. We have been taught this since grade school. But don't be tricked into thinking that drinking more water will solve the problem, drinking too much will cause you to head to the bathroom more often just to get rid of the excess water.
If the weather is hot, drink more water, and if you are exercising, drink more water. When you lose moisture through sweating, you need to replace it.
Avoid caffeine whether it be coffee or caffeinated drinks, these may bring on more trouble because they act as a diuretic and draw fluids away from your body instead of replenishing it. You need water, juice or even milk instead.
Take care of these issues and this will help you with any further bowel movement problems. If you still have difficulty, then this is the time to consult your physician, before you start the laxative option.
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