Everyone experiences a bout of constipation from time to time.
Perhaps from overindulgence in rich foods like too much high-fat
meat, dairy or sugar. Or maybe a course of medications that induces constipation. But chronic constipation is common, affecting an
estimated 10-20% of American adults. And it’s not normal.
Symptoms of Chronic Constipation
Are you experiencing any of these common symptoms?
Bloating
Hard and lump stools
Less than three bowel movements per week
Feelings of incomplete bowel movements
If you’ve experienced two or more of these symptoms weekly for the past three months or longer, that’s an indication of chronic constipation.
The physical discomfort experienced with chronic constipation is certainly frustrating. But there are other concerning issues that accompany this condition. Often people who suffer with chronic constipation also experience increased risk of hemorrhoids or anal fissures, lower back pain, and increased toxin absorption that can lead to even more uncomfortable symptoms.
What Causes Chronic Constipation?
Digestion is a complex process. Did you know that it involved nine organs in your body? It starts in the mouth and ends in the anus and includes your esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, gall bladder, liver and pancreas as well. Proper digestion – and elimination – take dietary and lifestyle support for each of these organs. And chronic stress has an impact on normal bowel function, too.
Did I mention digestion – and elimination – are complex?
Common causes of chronic constipation include:
Inadequate fiber
Inadequate hydration
Low stomach acid
Poor gallbladder function
Certain medications
Insufficient physical activity
“Gut dysbiosis – an imbalance of your gut microbes – can also contribute to chronic constipation.”
Can Nutritional Support Help?
Yes! As a holistic nutritionist, I can help you discover and remove roadblocks to smooth bowel movements and feeling better.
We’ll start by a thorough review of the history of your symptoms and evaluation of a three-day food log that I’ll ask you to keep. We’ll talk about bowel habits and any other digestive complaints you may be experiencing. We’ll discuss things you notice that help as well as things that make it worse. And we’ll look at your physical activity and stress levels. By evaluating all these factors, I’ll be able to develop a dietary and lifestyle plan that’s customized for you.
I’ll likely suggest some foods to try, perhaps some foods to avoid, and changes in hydration. If necessary, I’ll address any suspected nutritional deficiencies that may be contributing to your chronic condition with targeted nutritional supplements. Once you implement these changes, we’ll follow up to see what’s working and what other support your body may need to get you back on track.
Can Nutritional Support Help?
Yes! As a holistic nutritionist, I can help you discover and remove roadblocks to smooth bowel movements and feeling better.
We’ll start by a thorough review of the history of your symptoms and evaluation of a three-day food log that I’ll ask you to keep. We’ll talk about bowel habits and any other digestive complaints you may be experiencing. We’ll discuss things you notice that help as well as things that make it worse. And we’ll look at your physical activity and stress levels. By evaluating all these factors, I’ll be able to develop a dietary and lifestyle plan that’s customized for you.
I’ll likely suggest some foods to try, perhaps some foods to avoid, and changes in hydration. If necessary, I’ll address any suspected nutritional deficiencies that may be contributing to your chronic condition with targeted nutritional supplements. Once you implement these changes, we’ll follow up to see what’s working and what other support your body may need to get you back on track.
If you’ve experienced chronic constipation for three months or longer, it’s time to act.
To get started, book a free 30-minute nutritional consultation with me and we’ll put together a game plan to resolve your chronic constipation and those uncomfortable symptoms
