Constipation is determined in the colon (large intestine), which is responsible for packaging and eliminating stool.
As food moves through the colon, it absorbs water while forming stool. Muscle contractions (squeezing motions) in the colon push the stool toward the rectum (the lower 8 to 10 inches of the large intestine). By the time stool reaches the rectum, it is...
Americans are notorious for spending outrageous amounts on laxatives and other remedies in their battle against chronic constipation. ... Read more »
I keep hearing that women who are pregnant should avoid fish that are high in mercury. Are there specific types of fish that pregnant women... Read more »
For some time we've known that vitamin D-primarily found in milk-is linked to a lower likelihood of developing colon cancer. But new... Read more »
When people think of deadly food allergic reactions, nuts often spring to mind as the most obvious culprit. However, milk is quickly... Read more »
Constipation and infant gastroesophageal reflux sometimes occur together, effectively doubling the misery since both constipation and... Read more »
Source: Harvard Decision Guide
Prevention In many cases, you can prevent constipation by taking the following steps: Add more fiber to your diet - Set a dietary... Read more »
Seriously ill patients who take opioid pain medications often face constipation. But the drug methylnaltrexone appears to provide relief from this... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Constipation is most often defined as having a bowel movement less than 3 times per week. It usually is associated with hard stools or difficulty... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Spastic colon; Irritable colon; Mucous colitis; Spastic colitis Treatment The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms. Lifestyle... Read more »
A medicinal herb, milk thistle, appears to reduce liver damage resulting from chemotherapy, a new study has found. Read more »