Method for Defecating Like a Toddler (and Benefits of Doing So)

In the United States, chronic constipation affects approximately 63 million people, resulting in four million doctor visits, over one million hospitalizations, and over five million prescriptions written each year. This silent health crisis, often overlooked, can lead to a host of complications if left untreated.

The root cause of chronic constipation can stem from various factors. Weak pelvic muscles, hormonal imbalances such as diabetes and low thyroid, nerve problems like Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, or stroke, and even the regular use of certain medications - including painkillers, anti-depressants, high blood pressure prescriptions, allergy medications, calcium supplements, and more - can contribute to this issue.

The longer waste remains in the colon due to slow bowel transit, the higher the risks from the daily chemicals one is exposed to. These chemicals are easily absorbed into the walls of the colon instead of exiting the body, providing an open door to the rest of the body. Over time, this can lead to heart problems, inflammatory bowel problems, irritable bowels, estrogen dominance, hemorrhoids, anal bleeding, fecal impaction, intestinal bulging, and leaky gut.

Laxative use, while a common solution, can also lead to stomach pain, severe dehydration, electrolyte and mineral imbalances, and chronic constipation itself. It's crucial to approach laxative use with caution.

Fortunately, there are natural solutions to combat chronic constipation. Seven such supplements include:

Magnesium supplements, particularly magnesium citrate or glycinate, act as osmotic laxatives by attracting water into the intestines to soften stools and promote bowel movements.
Prunes, high in fiber and sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol that draws water into the colon, easing stool passage.
Probiotics, found in foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut, support healthy gut flora, which can improve stool consistency and increase bowel movement frequency over time.
Linseeds (flaxseeds) provide fiber and can relieve constipation in some people.
Kiwifruit contains natural laxative properties and fiber that can aid digestion and bowel function.
Castor oil, a traditional stimulant laxative, promotes intestinal movement but should be used sparingly and with caution to avoid dependency.
Soaked raisins, gentle on the stomach and rich in fiber and sorbitol, help soften stools and stimulate bowel motions.

In addition to these supplements, increasing fiber-rich foods (nuts, seeds, leafy greens, whole grains) and staying well-hydrated is important for constipation relief. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting new supplements, especially for chronic conditions or if other medications are used.

It's essential to remember that when one isn't going #2, there is no time to waste. Regular bowel movements not only improve your digestive health but also contribute to overall well-being. A lack of physical activity and a low-fiber diet can lead to chronic constipation, so maintaining an active lifestyle and a high-fiber diet can help prevent this issue.

[1] "Constipation: Symptoms and causes." Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20364211

[2] "7 Natural Remedies for Constipation." Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-natural-remedies-for-constipation

[3] "Magnesium Citrate: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning." WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1004/magnesium-citrate

[4] "10 Natural Remedies for Constipation." Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323333

To address the root causes of chronic constipation, one should consider factors such as weak pelvic muscles, hormonal imbalances, nerve problems, and the regular use of certain medications, including painkillers, antidepressants, and calcium supplements.
In the realm of workplace-wellness and health-and-wellness, employees may find relief from chronic constipation by incorporating supplements like magnesium, prunes, probiotics, linseeds, kiwifruit, castor oil, and soaked raisins into their diet.
Science has shown that these supplements can aid in constipation relief by acting as osmotic laxatives, encouraging water absorption into the intestines, or supporting healthy gut flora, which can improve stool consistency.
In terms of nutrition, maintaining a high-fiber diet that includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, along with staying well-hydrated, is crucial for constipation prevention and relief.
Mental health, skin care, and therapies-and-treatments also play a role in overall health. However, maintaining regular bowel movements through a combination of diet, supplements, and exercise can contribute significantly to one's health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise regimen, as well as their Medicare coverage if constipation becomes a chronic condition.