Constipation and its effects on the Human body
Sadly, constipation has become one of the most common health problems these days. According to the latest survey, around 22% of the total Indian population suffers from severe constipation. A good portion of the population feels bloated and uneasy. They face difficulty in passing stool.
Causes of Constipation
Ayurveda says the main cause of constipation is a bad Vata condition that expresses Vata qualities like dryness and hardness, caused by insufficient fiber in the diet, dehydration, lack of exercise, overconsumption of protein alcohol drinking, smoking and over-eating, and numerous other factors. Modern lifestyle, irregular eating habits, an incorrect diet, a disturbed and worried mind, and drinking too much tea or coffee add up to already sluggish digestion causes chronic constipation. A day without complete bowel movement might be very painful and unsettling. Constipation is often caused by ignoring the call of nature in time.
Consequences of constipation
The consequences of constipation include – pimples, acne, acidity, ulcers in the mouth, disturbed sleep and heartburn, and in some cases – depression as well.
Ayurveda recommends certain natural home remedies that will help to cure constipation and help make the bowel movement smoother and uninterrupted. However, nothing aids constipation like a balanced diet with regular exercise to keep Vata in balance.
Symptoms of Constipation
- Fewer than three bowel movements per week
- Hard, dry, or lumpy stools.
- Difficulty or pain when passing stools.
- A feeling that not all stool has passed.
- Constipation can have a serious negative effect on the quality of life, as well as on physical and mental health.
Ayurveda for constipation:
Constipation may increase the chances of distension and discomfort of the digestive tract, flatulence and pain, and headache and bad breath; in fact, it also leads to absorption of toxin from the colon.
Here are the remedies that Ayurveda suggests to cure constipation:
1. Following A Vata Dosha Pacifying Diet
One of the best ways to prevent constipation is to follow a diet that balances and pacifies the Vata. Refraining from cold foods and drinks, dried fruit, salads, and most beans helps to keep constipation at bay. Warm foods, warm drinks, and well-cooked vegetables are recommended to cure constipation.
2. Triphala Is Your Go-To Remedy
Triphala is an age-old ayurvedic remedy for constipation. It cleanses the intestines and results in regular bowel movements with its laxative properties. When consumed with coriander seeds and cardamom seeds it helps to provide relief from flatulence and indigestion.
3. Milk and Ghee
Contrary to the normal belief, consuming ghee in a regulated amount in a cup of hot milk at bedtime acts as a laxative. It is an effective and gentle medium of relieving constipation. This pacifies the Vata and pitta constitutions.
4. Pulp Of Bael Fruit
Consuming Pulp of bael fruit with jaggery every day in the evening before dinner can also help to relieve the discomfort due to constipation. Bael can also be consumed as sherbet along with tamarind water with jaggery added to it.
5. Liquorice Root
Powdered licorice root also has cleansing property of the gastrointestinal tract. When consumed with jaggery it promotes better bowel activity. However, a consultation with the doctor is recommended before taking it regularly.
6. Roasted Fennel or Methi
Roasted fennel seeds or methi when taken at bedtime with a glass of warm water acts as a mild laxative. The volatile oils of fennel seeds promote healthy digestion by increasing the secretion of gastric enzymes or juices.
7. Anjeer
Anjeer, or figs, soaked in warm water also helps to cure treat constipation, especially in kids. Figs contain a high quantity of fiber, which facilitates strong digestion.
8. China Grass
China grass, is a dried seaweed, which is cut and cooked in milk, becomes a gelatinous substance that helps to add volume to the stool and helps to pass it smoothly over the digestive tract.
Apart from this, the following are some of the health measures that should be followed to provide relief from constipation:
9. Regular exercise
Various research studies suggest that exercise may reduce the symptoms of constipation in some, although there is no scientific proof that exercise treats constipation. For people suffering from irregular bowel syndrome, trying gently to moderate exercises — such as going for regular walks, swimming, cycling, or jogging — promotes metabolism.
10. Hydration
Hydration, especially with sparkling water is more effective than tap water. People with indigestion, or dyspepsia, and people with chronic idiopathic constipation should try to drink more water. Being dehydrated regularly or consuming carbonated drinks might cause constipation.
11. Increased intake of fiber
Doctors often recommend a high intake of high fiber foods which help them pass through the digestive system more quickly. To prevent constipation, people should consume a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, such as psyllium.
12.Drink coffee, especially caffeinated coffee
Drinking coffee may help relieve constipation since coffee stimulates the muscles in the digestive system. Coffee may also contain small amounts of soluble fibers which might help prevent constipation by improving the balance of gut bacteria.
Conclusion:
Constipation slows down a person’s efficacy. Hence, it should be avoided at all costs. We have discussed Ayurveda and the natural ways to prevent and cure constipation. These natural measures and remedies can be carried out in the comfort of their homes by people.
- Drinking sufficient water in the morning.
- Drinking herbal teas like green tea, chamomile tea can help boost your digestion.
- Having a fiber-rich diet every day.
- Engaging in at least 30 minutes of exercise or regular walk helps to kick-start digestion.
- Eating lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables to add up to the bulk of the stool.
- Healthier lifestyle choices.
- No alcohol or smoking.
However due to lack of time, not many can follow even the above-mentioned regime. For them, Aveda Ayur is a ready-made help at hand!
Life Veda from Aveda Ayur brings to you the power of Triphala Magic and Herbal Lax Lite – which not only cures but also provides relief from bloating, swelling of the intestines, and aids digestion.
Herbal Lax Lite is a unique blend of 7 digestive herbs which help the body to digest the food properly, relieve constipation and have regular bowel movements. It provides relief from acidity, stomach ache, and heaviness in the abdomen. It further, Softens and increases the bulk of stool. Also, cleanses the intestines and treats gastric disorders.
Triphala magic is a blend of five wonder herbs that promotes metabolism and keeps the intestines healthy. It is a natural source of vitamin c and antioxidants. It has mild laxative properties that facilitate better bowel movements and helps to keep the colon and gut, healthy. Therefore, it acts as a natural cleanser for the whole body. It supports natural nourishment and rejuvenation of the digestive, circulatory, and respiratory systems.
Hence, you can now say bid adieu to your problems related to digestion and constipation with these magical herbs at the reach of your hand! Try it out today!
