Constipation means different things to different people. For a complete explanation, please read this article.
Causes of constipation
Constipation may be caused by gastrointestinal inflammation, immunopathology or by medications taken to control other symptoms.
Constipation due to inflammation
"The constipation will continue until the bacteria are all worked out of your GI tract. That could take some time." ..Trevor..
Dr. Blaney explained in his conference presentation that many of our systemic symptoms (including those involving digestion) are actually caused by inflammation in some part of the nervous system.
The autonomic system controls muscles in the heart, the smooth muscle in internal organs such as the intestine, bladder, and uterus. Here are web sources that will provide background information: http://tinyurl.com/ob8br http://tinyurl.com/cs2co
Opioids (narcotics) almost always cause constipation and should always be taken with stool softeners. If stool softeners not enough to prevent constipation, MOM, magnesium oxide or laxatives may need to be taken as long as you take the opioid.
Treatment of constipation
Constipation is uncomfortable and can cause other medical problems. Constipation should be treated for immediate relief and then measures should be adopted to prevent constipation.
For immediate relief, check with your doctor about the use of these laxative products:
-Milk of Magnesia (adult dose is 4 Tbsp with relief in 12 hrs...may be repeated)
-magnesium oxide tablets (the dose must be individualized and may be repeated or increased)
The following measures may help prevent constipation:
-walking or increasing your movement/activity (if able)
-drinking water -eating high fiber foods (check labels for Vitamin D)
-fiber supplements (Metamucil, Citrucel)
-stool softener capsules (docusate sodium, Colace, Diocto)
-using olive oil on salads and in cooking
-probiotics may be helpful. See What kind of probiotics should I use?
If constipation is a chronic problem, despite the above measures, try the following solutions:
A convenient way to manage chronic constipation is with magnesium oxide tablets. Start with 250mg and increase the amount every 12 hours until you find the daily dose that promotes a daily evacuation. Take it two hours before or one hour after antibiotics to avoid compromising their absorption. A daily dose of magnesium oxide may be taken long-term....it is not addictive like most laxative medications.
Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide) may also be used in this way....follow label instructions. See Is it okay to take magnesium?
Amitza (ubiprostone) was approved by the FDA in Jan 06 for treatment of chronic, idiopathic constipation.
The following articles contain information on the causes, treatment and prevention of constipation. None of the remedies for constipation are contraindicated while on the Marshall Protocol.
* We can help you understand chronic disease, but only your physician is licensed to give you medical care * Always consult your physician before commencing or changing any treatment he/she has prescribed for you
