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Waste material that moves through the large intestine too
slowly results in constipation. Constipation can cause a number
of ailments including bad breath, gas, nausea, fatigue, coated
tongue, irritability, headaches, and abdominal cramps. Chronic
constipation may be involved in the development of hemorrhoids,
diverticulitis, and colon cancer. Because the intestines are
a breeding ground for toxins, it is important that the "transit
time" forwaste material is no longer than twenty-four
hours. After this time, antigens and toxins begin to breed.
At one time or another, most of us have experienced a bout
with constipation. Although a change in bowel (orbladder)
habits is one of the warning signs of cancer, an occasional
difficult bowel movement is rarely reason forconcern.
Often arising from a diet with too little fluid and fiber,
constipation is the possible result of laxative overuse, a
stomach or intestinal blockage, nerve or muscle damage, or
weak intestinal muscles. Certain drugs, such as painkillers
and antidepressants, and mineral supplements, such as iron,
are also common suspects in causing constipation. Pregnancy
is another common cause.
Another primary cause of constipation is too few friendly
intestinal bacteria. The friendly bacteria are helpful in
encouraging peristalsis—the rhythmic muscular activity
that moves the contents of the intestines along. Peristalsis
is more efficient when the acidity of the region increases,
and that’s where lactobacteria are helpful. As part of
their normal fermentation process, lactobacteria produce lactic,
acetic, and other acids, creating an environment that enhances
peristalsis.
Several studies have shown the benefits of lactobacteria
on chronic constipation resulting from a disturbed gastrointestinal
tract. One study conducted by Drs. Rajala, et al., involved
elderly hospitalized patients who suffered with constipation.
The subjects were given yogurt that contained L. acidophilus
supplemented with fiber and lactitol (a disaccharide alcohol
that is food for L. acidophilus). This resulted in
a significant reduction of constipation.
Another study conducted in Sweden by Livia Alm, et al., involved
forty-two patients between the ages of fifty and ninety-five
who suffered from chronic constipation. All had become dependent
on various forms of laxatives. The patients were divided into
two groups. The first group was given as much acidophilus
milk at breakfast as they wanted for seven weeks. The other
group received no fermented foods. After the initial seven
weeks was up, the acidophilus milk was withdrawn from the
first group. During the next six weeks, the members of the
second group enjoyed acidophilus milk with their breakfasts.
A log was kept showing how much acidophilus milk was consumed
by each patient. Their bowel action and the consistency of
their bowel movements were monitored as well. There was a
marked reduction in the amount of laxatives needed and the
degree of constipation during the periods in which the acidophilus
milk was consumed; this was confirmed by the number and consistency
of the subjects’ bowel movements. The study determined
that the best effect against chronic constipation was achieved
with an intake of 200 milliliters (about six ounces) per day
of acidophilus milk.
The elderly often suffer from chronic constipation for a
number of reasons. Erratic or improper diet that leads to
nutritional deficiencies, and lack of physical activity are
the most common causes. Many have relied on laxatives for
so long that their bodies no longer work on "automatic,"
but must rely on the stimulation of a laxative to initiate
peristalsis. Then, too, an aging body slows down, and the
bowels no longer work as they once did. The added bonus received
by geriatric patients who eat cultured foods (or take Probiotic
supplements) is a dramatic improvement in nutritional intake,
including practically predigested proteins and bioavailable
calcium.
The friendly bacteria are helpful for anyone suffering from
chronic constipation, not just the elderly. Taking Probiotic
supplements, eating real yogurt, or drinking sweet acidophilus
milk offer great help without any negative side effects.
RECOMMENDED PROBIOTIC REGIMEN
When beginning a Probiotic regimen to combat constipation,
it is important to realize that, depending on the level of
toxicity, the die-off of toxins may result in the Herxheimer
Reaction—gas, bloating, and possible headaches. Depending
on the discomfort level you are willing to handle, it may
be best to start with minimal amounts of Probiotics, gradually
increasing their amount and frequency as you see fit. Powders
are the recommended form.
Start with 1/2 teaspoon each of L. acidophilus,
B. bifidum, and L. bulgaricus powders mixed together
in 6 to 8 ounces unchilled filtered water, taken three times
daily before meals. Can increase the amounts to 1 teaspoon
each L acidophilus and B. bifidum powders, and
1 tablespoon L. bulgaricus.
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