Constipated…

Constipation is a condition of the digestive system, where bowel motion becomes irregular. The person will have difficulty passing stool. Although constipation might seem like a trivial matter, it is actually a dangerous situation and in your case, must be treated right now.

Constipation occurs due to the accumulation of faeces and partially digested foods in the intestines. This generally attracts a lot of bacteria and other micro-organisms. The breakdown of the faeces and other substances in the intestine produces a lot of toxins and also makes the body very acidic. If the body becomes toxic, then it will become prone to many lifestyle and other diseases.

The extra weight in the stomach region is also not good for the organs in the mid-region. In a nutshell, if the bowel is blocked up, it will affect the entire body.

The obvious reasons for constipation include low fibre, poorly combined diet, repeatedly ignoring the need to go, not drinking enough water or lack of exercise. However, there are some other less obvious reasons for constipation including certain medications and supplements, as well as potentially serious medical conditions. In your case, I wish you had given me more information on your eating habits and said whether you are exercising or not. This is vital information which would have allowed me to assist you more.

Nonetheless, I see where you are overweight and you will need to lose this weight as well. Going forward, you will have to increase the amount of both soluble and insoluble fibres in your diet. Therefore, you should increase the amount of fruit and vegetable in your diet, because fibre helps with the smooth running of the digestive system. Also try to drink at least eight glasses of water daily. The body is composed of approximately 70 per cent water and this water makes the faeces softer and easier to pass out.

It is very important that you do not ignore your bowel motions. Bowel motion can be habit forming and so it is therefore important to develop good bowel habits. Also, in some cases, people will ignore the bowel motion because of the dislike of using public toilets, but you must try and pass stool when you feel the urge. It is also very important to increase your activity/exercise. The metabolism of those who are physically inactive tends to be slower than those who are active. A slowing down of the metabolism also makes the digestive system slow. If this happens, this can also cause constipation. This problem is seen frequently in those who are ageing.

You should also ensure that there are no blockages in the intestine and also that there are no neurological disorders causing your constipation. I would also suggest that you do a detox programme for starters. In a nutshell, eat more fruits and vegetables, reduce your starch and sugars, drink more water, be more active and ensure that there are no existing health conditions that are making you constipated.

We will answer your weight-related questions

Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, Suite 16, 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 5. Send your questions to wilsonn@jamaicaobserver.com.