Overcoming Constipation

Q. My wife has suffered from constipation for years. She usually has just one or two small bowel movements a week, with difficulty. She has tried prescription and over-the-counter medicines, including fiber and docusate, to no avail. A recent colonoscopy was all clear.
We have read that natural colon cleansers are supposed to loosen and remove deeply impacted toxic buildup in the colon without side effects. My wife has high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and hypothyroidism. I wonder if such products would be safe in conjunction with her medications.
A. We are not enthusiastic about colon cleansing except prior to colonoscopy or bowel surgery. We worry about herbal colon cleansers because when they work, the resulting diarrhea can upset the balance of minerals in the body. This could be quite hazardous for a person with congestive heart failure.
Instead, we suggest she try sugarless gum and possibly add a few doses of Power Pudding, a mixture of bran, prune juice and applesauce. The Guides we are sending you (Digestive Disorders and Constipation) have our ten tips to combat constipation and a recipe for Power Pudding.