What To Do When You Can’t Poop
Wanna hear a poop joke? Nah, probably not… they always stink. 💩
Know what stinks even worse? Constipation. One of the most uncomfortable feelings in the world is when you can’t seem to pass a stool. Especially if it’s been a few days. And we’ve all been there. You feel crampy, bloated and strain with all your might… only to possibly receive a minimal “reward”.
So what causes this and can it be avoided? When should you start to worry? Can it be fixed naturally? Keep reading to learn all about how to keep your number two habits as healthy as possible.
What Causes Constipation?
For many people, it’s can be caused by dehydration or a low-fibre diet. Stress, travelling and certain medications can also slow the flow. Constipation is a common condition that occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass. There are many potential causes of constipation.
A diet low in fibre and not drinking enough fluids can make stools hard and difficult to pass. A sedentary lifestyle can slow down digestion and make bowel movements less frequent. Certain medications, such as painkillers, antidepressants, and iron supplements, can cause constipation as a side effect.
Changes in routine, such as travelling or a new work schedule, can disrupt the body's natural bowel movements. Certain medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), thyroid disorders and neurological disorders, can cause constipation. Hormonal changes and pressure on the intestines during pregnancy can also lead to constipation. Finally, ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can cause stool to become harder and more difficult to pass over time.
In general, constipation occurs when there is a disruption in the normal functioning of the digestive system. Identifying the underlying cause of constipation is important for determining the appropriate treatment. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes may be sufficient to alleviate constipation. In other cases, medical intervention may be necessary.
How Often Should You Go, You Know?
The frequency of bowel movements varies widely among individuals, and what is considered "normal" can differ from person to person. However, on average, most people have bowel movements once a day or every other day. Some people may have bowel movements more than once a day, while others may only go once every two or three days.
In addition to frequency, the consistency and shape of stools can also provide insight into bowel health. Normal stools are typically brown and have a soft, formed shape that is easy to pass. They should not be too hard or too loose, and there should be no pain or discomfort during bowel movements.
If stools are consistently hard or difficult to pass, it could be a sign of constipation. Conversely, if stools are consistently loose or watery, it could be a sign of diarrhea or other digestive issues. Any significant changes in bowel habits or the appearance of stools should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as they could be a sign of underlying health problems.
Some Tips to Help You Go
Staying hydrated is important! Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body functioning at its best.
Feeling a bit constipated? Give psyllium husk powder a go, it can help to regulate your bowel movements and keep things moving smoothly.
Start your day with a steaming hot cup of coffee, or if you prefer, decaf works just as well. It'll warm you up and give you a little energy boost to start your day.
Take a magnesium supplement to help ease muscle tension and promote relaxation. Your body will thank you for it.
For a soothing drink, make some flaxseed tea by steeping flaxseeds in hot water. It's high in fibre and can help to promote healthy digestion.
If you're not a fan of tea, take a spoonful of flaxseed oil instead. It's a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and can help to keep your gut healthy.
Want to improve your bowel movements? Try getting in a squat position when you go to the toilet. It can help to straighten out your colon and make it easier to go.
Exercise is a great way to get your body moving and relieve constipation. Take a walk, go for a run or do some yoga to get your blood flowing.
To reduce stress and promote relaxation, try meditating and taking some deep breaths. It can help to calm your mind and relieve tension in your body.
Give yourself a little TLC and do a self-massage. Focus on the areas where you're feeling tension and work out those knots. You'll feel better in no time.
Make sure you're eating plenty of fibre-rich foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains to help keep your bowel movements regular.
For a natural way to relieve constipation, try doing a Castor Oil Pack. It involves applying castor oil to your abdomen and covering it with a cloth. It can help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
What About Over The Counter Stool Softeners?
If home remedies like increasing water intake, fibre intake, and exercise do not alleviate constipation, over-the-counter stool softeners may be a viable option. Stool softeners work by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making it easier to pass. Some common examples of over-the-counter stool softeners include docusate sodium and glycerin suppositories. The “bottom line”? If you can use the help, try them slowly and follow the instructions on the bottle.
When It’s Time To See A Doctor For Your Constipation
If constipation persists despite using over-the-counter stool softeners and the above-mentioned remedies, it may be time to see a doctor. In some cases, constipation can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, or even colon cancer.
Additionally, if constipation is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, or weight loss, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, as these symptoms could be indicative of a more serious condition. In general, if constipation is causing significant discomfort or impacting your daily life, it is a good idea to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Learn Proper Nutrition To Stay Healthy and Regular
It’s not easy to know what you should be eating and avoiding to for your particular health needs. While general guidelines can help, nutrition simply isn’t one-size-fits-all. This is why some people (myself) study for years to understand ways to increase health for most circumstances and create personalised plans to support you. No matter what you happen to be dealing with.
Want to find out how it feels to have someone in your life that can truly help you feel better and coach you through the steps you need to take?
Start with a no-obligation consultation to my Vitality By Design Program. If you decide to work with me, you will get a 90 minutes health history session for me to gain a detailed understanding of your health journey with an analysis of your whole body. You’ll get a well-researched and science-based treatment plan designed specifically for your current health state that will support your changes, six 60-minute live in-depth connection sessions (bi-monthly to learn and implement), an IgG and IgA food intolerance test to discover what foods you need to avoid and which ones are good for you (Valued at $380!), analysis of test results, pathology and genetic testing and a welcome pack designed specifically for you!
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