Tied Up Down Under

What are the causes?
The lack of fibre in one’s diet is the main culprit. Other factors: Low water consumption, inadequate exercise, laxative abuse, overeating. Lifestyle changes, such as travel, pregnancy, advancing age and specific diseases like irritable bowel syndrome, colon and rectum problems, also pitch in.

What’s the impact?
Lots. ‘‘In the short term, it leads to irritability, a bloated, heavy, uncomfortable feeling, headaches. Constipation is known to affect the skin quite badly by way of acne and sallowness,’’ says Dr Sharma. ‘‘Long term constipation can lead to liver problems, cause the rectum to slip and haemorrhoids. Other dangers: Decreased immunity and recurrent health problems.’’

How is it tackled?
Dr Sharma prefers going ayurvedic in treating constipation. ‘‘Channa roti is something I recommend to everyone. But the three body types call for different treatments.’’

Vata: Drink lots of water. Licorice works very well. To get rid of constipation, try Isabgol with warm milk, with maybe a small pinch of cinnamon powder and two teaspoons of dried rose powder. Avoid ODing on tea and coffee.

Pita: Overeating is the main problem. Digestive churan is usually a good remedy.

Kapha: Increase fibre intake; wheat bran is a good idea. Walk a lot. Drink hot water and herbal teas, especially jasmine tea. Triphala is also highly recommended.

What about laxatives?
Obsession with daily bowel movements frequently leads to serious abuse of laxatives. They are usually not necessary—though doctors may recommend them in cases of chronic constipation—and can lead the colon to depend on laxatives to initiate bowel movements. Over time, laxatives can damage nerve cells in the colon and interfere with the colon’s natural ability to contract. For the same reason, regular use of enemas can also lead to a loss of normal bowel function.