Conventional Constipation Treatment   Most conventional constipation treatments revolve around treating the symptoms of constipation, meaning increasing the frequency of stool and/or making it easier to pass.  There are many over the counter products that can help with this situation.   Laxatives for Constipation:   Bulk forming laxatives are fiber supplements and are targeted at bulking the stool. They draw water in from the colon, and when this water is combined with the supplement, its create more bulk in the colon, thereby making it easier to pass.  It is extremely important that these products be taken with plenty of water; if not, they can have the opposite effect.   Stimulant laxatives cause peristalsis (rhythmic contractions) of the intestines to help the stool move by increasing the sensation of the need for a bowel movement.   Stool softeners add moisture to the stool and make them easier to pass. They should be taken at bedtime and with a lot of water.  Softeners usually take 1-3 days to take effect.  The active ingredient is commonly Docusate Sodium, which helps by drawing water into the fecal mass.   Saline laxatives work in a way similar to bulk-forming laxatives, in that they attract water to the intestine to swell the stool and allow for the fecal mass to pass more easily.  They usually produce results within a half-hour to three hours following a dose. Taking these products on an empty stomach speeds results.  Like bulk forming laxatives, It is important to consume additional fluids to prevent dehydration.   Lubricants such as mineral oil can be consumed to reduce friction and to "grease up" the stool, allowing it to travel through the intestine more easily.   If constipation is due to a structural cause, surgery may be the only option to correct the problem.     Supplements helpful for Constipation   Probiotics: When dealing with constipation, it is very important that the environment of the digestive system is seeded with the right bacteria, in the correct proportions.  It is estimated that there are several trillion (1,000,000, 000, 000) bacteria living in the average gastrointestinal tract, encompassing over 400 different species.  This normal flora, as it is called, serves many functions.  Flora assists with carbohydrate, protein and lipid digestion, produces vitamins such as vitamin A, B and K, metabolizes hormones, participates in the detoxification process, digests lactose, helps acidify the digestive tract, regulates peristalsis and bowel movements, and prevents constipation. [4, 5, 6]   Of all the bacterial species that live in our digestive system, Lactobacillus acidophilus is dominant in the small intestine.  Bifidobacteria are the prominent flora within the large intestine. Therefore, for optimal gut function, it is important to restore the dominance of these bacteria respectively.   Fiber Fiber supplementation helps with constipation  and adds bulk to the stool, thereby making it easier to pass. While the first goal is to get adequate amounts of fiber from our diet, supplementation is sometimes necessary.   Psyllium seed Psyllium is rich in dietary fiber, which is the both, the best preventative measure and treatment for functional constipation. [7]  Dietary fibers bulks stools, improves their water content, and decreases colon transit.  It must be remembered that all fiber supplements need to be taken with adequate water; if not, it can lead to a worsening of symptoms.  As an added benefit, psyllium seed also has a positive effect on lowering cholesterol and heart disease. [8]   Flaxseeds Flax seeds are great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and are helpful lubricant for digestive function.  In addition to lubrication, they may be used a dietary source of fiber that helps to bulk the stool.  Grinding whole flax seeds will provide persons with fiber content and the lubrication, whereas the oil form would just add lubrication to the stool.   Cassia senna Cassia senna, or Senna, is an herb whose use for constipation dates back to ancient Arabian physicians.  Today, many over the counter laxatives contain it as their active ingredient.  Considered to be a stimulating laxative, senna decreases bowel transit time by increasing peristalsis.  This shortened transit time allows for less water reabsorbtion by the colon, keeping the stool moister.  Senna can be taken in various delivery forms, including teas, liquids, tablets, or powders.  It is also commonly combined with other herbs to provide for a syngergistic effect.  A study involving elderly patients in a nursing facility showed that a senna fiber combination was a cheaper, more effective treatment for constipation than lactulose, a common over the counter laxative. [9]   Cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana) Cascara sagrada is a natural laxative derived from the bark of the Rhamnus purshiana tree, which is native to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The use of cascara as a digestive aid dates back many centuries, Native American tribes being the first to discover its medicinal uses. It wasn't until 1877 that it was incorporated into more popular laxative products. Cascara sagrada is considered a stimulating laxative due to its anthraquinone derivatives. These compounds stimulate the motility of the intestine keeping the food moving through the digestive system, and producing a softer stool. Several studies have shown that cascara sagrada is effective in easing chronic constipation in elderly people.   Aloe Vera Aloe Vera has long been known for its mucilage soothing properties, and ability to enhance digestion and decrease bowel transit times. It is helpful in many conditions, such as minor cuts and burns, intestinal infections and reducing inflammation.  Like other herbal laxatives, it contains anthraquinone glycosides that are metabolized by the internal flora to form other molecules that have a laxative action. [10]  Aloe is considered a strong stimulating laxative.  However, gentler herbs, such as cascara sagrada, are often used first.     Learn More About Constipation Introduction to Constipation Constipation Treatment Products helpful for Constipation Go Back Learn More

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