Constipation Can Be Cured

Never let it be said that Americans lack compassion. So many readers responded to a letter from a woman suffering severe constipation that our mailbox was full.
She said, “Unless I use a laxative, two weeks may pass without a bowel movement. Usually I take Perdiem, just so I can go once a week. In the last month, though, I have had to double the dosage two days in a row because my bowels got totally blocked and I got sick, to the point of throwing up.”
Although her problem is exceptionally severe, she has a lot of company. Many people have experienced days upon end without bowel movements and are eager to share their solutions:
“Those who haven’t suffered constipation have no idea of the severity of the problem. I tried everything you suggested and more, to no avail. I became convinced that it was related to my medication and narrowed it down to a calcium supplement I had been taking for years. I haven’t taken it since, and I haven’t had the problem since.”
We have heard from other people that calcium carbonate can be constipating. Dozens of over-the-counter and prescription medications can also have this effect. Certain blood pressure medicines, antidepressants and prescription pain relievers are notorious in this respect.
One answer to the calcium problems might be a different formulation. Calcium citrate, for one, has a reputation for being easier on the colon. Another approach could be magnesium, as this reader testifies:
“I have a response for the poor person who goes as long as two weeks without a bowel movement. I too had that problem all my life. Then I told my physician I had been having some minor heart palpitations. Tests showed no heart problems, but she thought my body might be low in magnesium. A blood test confirmed this.
Now I take 500 mg per day and as a side-reward have regular daily bowel movements. Please pass this along as a possibility. It could change her life if indeed she has the same problem.”
We were taken to task by one reader for not stressing fiber and fluids above all else:
“Shame on you! You mention prescription laxatives for a constipated patient. Many people are not aware of the fiber-deficient Western diet and assume they are eating healthfully.
“But they should be eating fruits, nuts and veggies instead of grains. Beans and popcorn are much better than bleached white flour, bread and pasta with less than 1 gm dietary fiber per serving. Proper diet will prove much more consistent and gentler on the digestive system than drugs. You should know better!”
Getting plenty of fluid and eating a high-fiber diet are the best ways to prevent constipation. Bran, ground flaxseed, fruit (especially prunes) or sugarless gum will help most people with regularity. Those who find they need more help might try psyllium, found in Metamucil and similar products.
We have compiled our favorite recipes and remedies in a Guide with 10 tips to combat constipation. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped, self-addressed envelope: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. GG-30, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.