Fact -Ninety-five percent of adults have bowel movements between three and 21 times per week! One would categorize this frequency as Normal. Anything above or below this figure would amount to being abnormal bowel activity and could lead to certain unwanted conditions. Where excessive bowel movement could lead to problems like loose motions, on the other hand, going without a bowel movement days together could lead to a worrisome condition known as Constipation. Even though continuous non-activity of the bowels for two or three days would not cause any physical discomfort, it could still become a reason for mental distress for some people.

Recurring pains in the tummy for days together, or infrequent visits to the bathroom are symptoms that you might be suffering from constipation. Medical definition of constipation is "fewer than three bowel movements a week." The frustrating part about this problem is that it remains largely unrecognized for a majority of the population and when it is finally discovered, there's no other way but to consult a doctor for a painful diagnosis. The good thing is that with prior information and knowledge about constipation and its symptoms, this health ailment can be easily detected and effectively treated.

What may become a cause for worry would be the occurrence of worrisome symptoms like rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and cramps, nausea and vomiting, and involuntary weight loss. In such cases, immediate assessment would be required and medical treatment would become unavoidable.
People belonging to a certain category are more prone to be suffering from constipation than the others. These include people aged over 65, pregnant women, frequent travelers, new mothers, inactive people and junk food lovers etc.

Number one in the "to do" list to avoid constipation or to wear off its affects is following a diet rich in fiber which in turn helps in overcoming constipation. Intake of fiber is highly recommended for constipated patients. The most common sources of fiber include:

•    fruits and vegetables,
•    wheat or oat bran,
•    psyllium seed (for example, Metamucil, Konsyl),
•    synthetic methyl cellulose (for example, Citrucel), and
•    polycarbophil (for example, Equilactin, Konsyl Fiber)

Acute changes in the bowel habit call for a thorough learning of how much fluid and what types of fluids the patient consumes on an average day

One of the most effective and time-tested remedies for constipation is provided by Ayurveda. Herbal mixtures like Triphala are one of the best herbal remedies for the permanent treatment of constipation. Made from a mixture of amala, behera and harada, Tiphala has excellent laxative properties. Another one of Ayurveda's most potent herbal supplements is GSCare.  Useful in treating multiple conditions like indigestion, constipation, gas, diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome, this natural supplement relies on completely natural herbs and supplements which cleanse the digestive tract and flushes out toxins. It aids in digestion and helps control gas. GSCare's formula is particularly effective in treating constipation and is non habit forming.

From constipation to a healthy tummy through Ayurveda.