Constipation is a condition in which a person has uncomfortable or infrequent bowel movements. The stools are often hard and difficult to pass, and there is a feeling as if the rectum has not been completely emptied. The frequency of bowel movements does not necessarily translate to a constipation diagnosis, as not everyone's bowels move the same. However, you may be constipated if you have less than three bowel movements a week and experience a change in the frequency of bowel movements, along with a change in the color or texture of the stools.
Constipation may be accompanied by abdominal pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. In addition, you may develop hemorrhoids (because of increased blood pressure) or increase your risk for diverticular disease because of the increased pressure on the walls of the large intestine. Fecal impaction is also a factor of constipation, which is where the stool in the last part of the large intestine blocks the passage. This condition is accompanied by cramps, rectal pain, and an inability to eliminate the stools. Fecal impaction is more common in the elderly and pregnant women.
Although most people cannot pinpoint an exact cause of constipation, it may be a result of another underlying problem. A lack of fiber and fluids in the diet is probably the most common cause in the United States. Constipation can also be caused from disordered colonic transit or anorectal function as a result of a primary motility disturbance, certain drugs, or in association with a large number of systemic diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract. Other disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, metabolic disorders (diabetes), or endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism) may also be factors in the cause of constipation.
Foods that have been proven to help with Constipation:
Foods high in fiber (fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains), increase water intake. Fermented foods like kim chee, miso soup, and fresh sauerkraut.
Nutrients that have been proven to help with Constipation:
Flaxseeds, Fiber, Aloe Vera, Digestive Enzymes, Probiotics.
Exercises that have been proven to help with Constipation:
Moderate exercise helps you to avoid and to relieve constipation. It's generally recommended that you exercise at least three times a week, steadily for 20 to 30 minutes, or enough to raise your heart rate.
Formula IV, Beta-Zyme Digestive Enzymes,
Nourishake Protein Drink, Acidophilus Plus
***As set down by the Food and Drug Administration, vitamin supplement products cannot be advertised as intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.***

Formula IV Multiple Vitamin

Beta-Zyme Digestive Enzymes

Nourishake Protein Drink

Acidophilus Plus