How to Know if You're Constipated & How it Can Wreak Havoc on Your Health
I find that over half of my clients are constipated, but many of them don’t even know it! Often times I’ll hear people say that they’re having 2-3 bowel movements per week so they’re regular, but this isn’t ideal.
So what is considered constipation? Below I’ll review with you what constipation actually is and why it’s so problematic.
Signs & Symptoms of Constipation
Fewer than 1 bowel movements per day
Stools that are painful and/or difficult to pass
A Type 1 or Type 2 on the Bristol Stool Chart (below)
No feeling of complete elimination
Taking longer than 5-10 minutes
Why Constipation is a Big Issue
So of course being constipated can be uncomfortable, but there are some much more serious issues that can arise if you’re not eliminating regularly.
Gas and bloating
Hormones that are intended to be eliminated are reabsorbed and recirculated which can result in hormonal imbalances
Toxins don’t get eliminated and reabsorb into the body
Imbalances in gut flora - too much of the “bad” guys and not enough of the “good” guys
Skin issues
Can lead to SIBO
Poor immunity
Fecal impactions
These can snowball into more serious health concerns! So please don’t take constipation lightly. If you’re not going at least once a day, it’s time to make some changes!