Complications of constipation
Dr Sandeep Aggarwal, Chairman of the Institute of Bariatric and Gastrointestinal Surgery at Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi (India) - said that most of us live with constipation, a condition where it is not easy to eliminate waste from the body.
Constipation can cause serious digestive problems. The condition can lead to swelling of the veins near the rectum or anus, causing bleeding and blockage.
Constant stress and pressure in the abdomen over many years will cause hernias. Because the organs in the abdomen push against each other, weakening the muscle tissue around them and bulging out causing pain.
“Constipation is one of the main causes of hernias,” says Dr. Sandeep Aggarwal, adding that the condition can be controlled with a high-fiber diet, plenty of water, and exercise.
Not only does this reduce the risk of hernias, it is also beneficial for overall digestive health.
Reasons to limit the use of laxatives
According to Dr. Aggarwal, when people are constipated, they often overuse laxatives. The habit can cause the intestines to lose their responsiveness to the muscles and nerves. The intestines then become stretched and are no longer effective in pushing stool out. This leads to a dependence on laxatives, requiring higher doses to relieve the condition.
How to control constipation
Dr Aggarwal advises that patients need to follow a disciplined diet and lifestyle. A high-fiber diet is important to maintain regular bowel movements as it increases stool bulk and helps stool pass easily through the intestines.
Fruits and vegetables: Apples, oranges, bananas, carrots, spinach and cabbage.
Whole grains: Brown rice, whole wheat, oats and barley.
Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas and beans.
Intake: For adults, the average fiber intake should be 25-30g per day. Small, frequent meals may be easier to digest. Avoid fatty and processed foods, refined grains and white bread as they can make constipation worse.
Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and fermented foods are helpful.
Stay hydrated: Water helps rehydrate soluble fiber that dries out as it moves through the digestive system, softening and moving stools. A person should drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. Limit dehydrating drinks like tea, coffee, and alcohol.
Exercise regularly: Because it stimulates the muscles in the intestines, it affects the way the intestines move. Some simple exercises that are helpful are walking, yoga and swimming. At least 30 minutes of these exercises can reduce the risk of developing a hernia.
