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!