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What is Constipation?

Gina’s Advice

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UNDERSTANDING constipation

Constipation is a common digestive issue characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stool. It occurs when the stool moves through the colon too slowly, resulting in hard, dry, and difficult-to-pass stools. Constipation can be caused by various factors, including dietary choices, inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions.

Causes of constipation can vary and may include:

  • Dietary Factors: Insufficient fiber intake, inadequate fluid consumption, or a diet low in fruits and vegetables can contribute to constipation.
  • Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle or insufficient physical activity can slow down the digestive system and contribute to constipation.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as opioids, antacids, and certain antidepressants, can cause constipation as a side effect.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or hormonal imbalances can affect bowel function and contribute to constipation.
  • Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, or neurological disorders, can lead to chronic constipation.

Symtpoms of constipation

If you are experiencing constipation, you may encounter one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Infrequent Bowel Movements: Having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
  • Straining during Bowel Movements: Experiencing difficulty or discomfort when trying to pass stool.
  • Hard or Dry Stool: Stools that are lumpy, hard, dry, or difficult to pass.
  • Abdominal Discomfort: Experiencing bloating, cramping, or discomfort in the abdominal area.

ACUPUNCTURE FOR constipation

Acupuncture can be an effective complementary therapy for managing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. By targeting specific acupuncture points, it aims to stimulate the body’s natural processes, regulate digestion, and promote overall well-being. Benefits of acupuncture for constipation include:

Acupuncture can help regulate the function of the digestive system, promoting proper bowel movements and relieving constipation.

Acupuncture stimulates the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting proper peristalsis and bowel movement.

Acupuncture has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress levels and promoting a relaxed state, which can aid in relieving constipation.

Acupuncture can help alleviate abdominal discomfort or pain associated with constipation, promoting greater comfort.