Constipation is a condition that can be either acute or chronic. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases defines constipation as having less than three bowel movements a week. This is due to hard, impacted fecal matter in the colon, which can also cause pain and discomfort. Colon cleansing is a process that can be done to promote regularity and keep your digestive system functioning properly.
Step 1
Avoid constipating foods. Foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt and low in fiber should be avoided when you are cleansing your colon. Eliminate foods like red meat, cheese, milk, white flour products, deep fried foods, commercial baked goods, carbonated drinks and caffeinated beverages.
Step 2
Eat more fiber. Fiber is a non-digestible substance that can help push waste matter along in the colon and promote regularity. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should get 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day to produce soft, bulky stool. Foods that are high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
Step 3
Drink more water. Water helps flush toxins from the body, keeps you hydrated, and softens stool. According to the Institute of Medicine, women should get approximately 2.7 total liters of water daily and men should get about 3.7 liters.
Step 4
Exercise. Exercise offers a number of benefits to the body. It can increase your strength, improve your balance, reduce your weight and stimulate the activity of your intestines. Do some form of exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. Examples are running, weight training, stair climbing, tennis and brisk walking.
Step 5
Use natural herbs. Natural herbs can have a laxative effect, can kill parasites and improve the overall function of your intestines. Examples of these are artichoke, aloe vera, dandelion, fennel, rhubarb root and psyllium husks.
Step 6
Try colonic irrigation. Colonic irrigation is a type of high-powered enema. In this procedure, a speculum is inserted into your rectum and warm water that is enriched with electrolytes and minerals flows into your colon. Backed-up fecal matter is broken up, the water pressure is reversed and the material gets extracted. This procedure generally takes about an hour. This procedure has risks, so check with your doctor first to be sure it is appropriate for you.
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