Article Library
Hydration: Supporting Bowel Health
During the summer, many people seek out water for recreation and relaxation. Whether swimming in a pool, running through a sprinkler, or sitting by the ocean, water offers calmness and serenity that are important for emotional health. While we naturally seek out water around us, drinking enough water for our bodies is just as important. Hydration plays a vital role in gastrointestinal health by preventing constipation.
The Power of Plants: How Fiber Supports Gut Health
We discussed in a previous article how constipation is often the “elephant in the room”, a topic people may feel uncomfortable discussing. Healthy bowel habits are important throughout the entire lifespan, from infancy to older adulthood. Constipation not only disrupts daily routines and quality of life, but if not addressed, can contribute to more serious health conditions. Healthy bowel habits start with healthy lifestyle choices, and nutrition is a key contributor.
The Elephant in the Room: Why Constipation Matters
Constipation can be the elephant in the room. Often, the topic of bowel movements can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and feel too private. Yet constipation is all too common. As a bedside nurse, I routinely asked patients about their bowel habits. A surprisingly common answer was “I move my bowels once or twice per week.”
Children and Constipation
Constipation is a huge problem among children and adults alike. Among the pediatric population, there is a global prevalence of 9.5 to 16% [1], affecting more children in the United States and Europe than in Africa.