Constipation usually occurs after we alter our lifestyle (i.e., travel, on vacation, new job, pregnancy or after illness). A specific pathological reason (i.e, obstruction of Hypothyroidism) can be ruled out by your physician. Maintaining your daily liquid intake and diet can help improve your daily bowel movements.

What is considered normal bowel functions? A normal movement ranges from once daily, twice daily, to once every other day with quality stool. In Chinese medicine, it is a natural phenomena and a necessary function for the body to detoxify. The frequency of bowel movements is important. If you observe that your daily movement is less than once every 2 days, consider it normal – like a good yellow light to your digestive health and intestinal energy. The quality of stool should also warrant attention (i.e., too dry, too wet, black in color). The process of the movement should be a smooth discharge in a certain length of time without any major complaints (i.e., bloating, painful cramps, bleeding, and hemorrhoids).

The important thing is to best manage the causes of your chronic constipation. Here are a few steps you can try before trying any medicine or laxatives.

1. Drink (sip, swish, hold a little and swallow) at least 6 to 8 glasses of liquid (water or other liquids) throughout the day. Frequency is the key. If you have to urinate every 1-2 hours, you may be drinking too much, too fast, too frequently. If it burns, smells funny, or you urinate every 5-6 hours (or longer), you may be dehydrated.
2. Add/increase the fiber content in your diet (i.e., fresh fruits and vegetables, fiber supplements with psyllium).
3. Engage in some regular exercise (i.e., Qi-Cong breathing, lower abdominal massage for bowel, exercise for digestion energy).
4. Set aside a specific time every day for trying a bowel movement.
5. Avoid regular or prolonged use of milk of magnesia or mineral oil. If constipation continues, occasionally use it at bedtime.
6. Avoid irritating enemas such as those containing soapsuds. Such enemas are advised in preparation for certain x-rays or endoscopic examinations of the colon and have no place in daily life.
7. Avoid enemas in general. A thorough cleansing of the colon by either laxative or enema, actually contributes to constipation problems.
8. If your constipation does not improve, see your physician or Master Lee today.