Constipation i.e. inability to empty the stomach is a common but serious problem, which people often ignore. This problem is increasing rapidly due to modern lifestyle, irregular eating habits, fast food, drinking less water and stress.
According to statistics, 1 in every 3 people is struggling with some form of constipation. Constipation occurs when the movement of the intestines slows down and bowel movements do not become regular or spontaneous. In this condition, stool gets accumulated, the stomach does not seem completely clean and the person may feel problems like heaviness, burning sensation in the stomach, gas, headache and fatigue throughout the day.
If it is ignored for a long time, its side effects start appearing on the entire body. Persistent constipation can cause heart disease, diabetes, thyroid and even mental diseases like depression. Not only this, skin diseases like acne, blemishes, allergies and psoriasis can also be associated with constipation.
This problem is seen more in women, because intestinal movement is affected during hormonal changes, pregnancy, periods and menopause. At the same time, due to prolonged constipation, the absorption of calcium and magnesium in the body reduces, due to which the bones can become weak.
Modern research shows that due to the gut-brain axis, constipation also has a direct impact on mental health, which can increase problems like anxiety, irritability and depression. When stool remains in the intestines for a long time, the toxic substances from it return back into the blood, which is called auto-intoxication. This affects the functioning of the entire body.
Old texts also mention that constipation creates pressure and gas in the stomach, which can reduce the ability of the lungs to expand and increase problems like breathlessness or asthma. Its main reasons include lack of fiber, excessive consumption of oily and fried foods, lack of water, mental stress, lack of sleep, lack of physical activity and some medicines like iron supplements and painkillers.
In Ayurveda, constipation is considered to be an unbalanced condition of Vata dosha. The large intestine is the main site of vata, and when the intestines become dry, the stool becomes hard and gets stuck. This can further cause piles, fistula, anal fissure and skin diseases.
Home and Ayurvedic remedies are very effective in getting relief from constipation. Drinking lukewarm water with lemon on an empty stomach in the morning cleanses the intestines. Taking Triphala powder with lukewarm water at night activates the digestive system. Isabgol husk provides instant relief, while figs and raisins act as natural fiber and laxative. Drinking warm milk mixed with ghee at night also provides lubrication to the intestines and eliminates constipation from its roots.
Along with this, drinking lukewarm water after waking up in the morning, drinking adequate amount of 8-10 glasses of water every day, taking fiber rich diet and doing regular yoga asanas like Pawanmuktasana and Vajrasana is necessary for permanent relief from constipation.
–IANS