Constipation ... Myths and Facts
Copyright 2004, Ginacor, Inc.

Myth #1: You are constipated, if you do not have a bowel movement everyday.
Fact: There is no right number of daily or weekly bowel movements. Normal is different for every person; it may be three times a day or three times a week depending on the person. It is more important to look at whether or not your bowel movements are regular.

Myth #2: You are not constipated if you have loose stools.
Fact: It is possible to be constipated even if you have loose stools. Waste can be clogging the large intestine while only a little stool passes through. If you have impacted waste in your colon, creating loose stools may be your body's attempt at excreting toxins. Consider this: One autopsy revealed a colon to be 9 inches in diameter with a passage through it no larger than a pencil. The rest was clogged with caked layers of fecal matter.

Myth #3: Constipation is cured with laxatives.
Fact: Laxatives are NOT a cure for constipation. In fact, they can be very harmful and habit-forming. The colon begins to rely on laxatives to bring on bowel movements. Over time, laxatives can damage nerve cells in the colon and interfere with the colon's natural ability to contract. For the same reason, regular use of enemas can also lead to a loss of normal bowel function.

Myth #4: Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement does not contribute to constipation.
Fact: Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement may cause you to stop feeling the urge. Some people delay having a bowel movement because they are busy, self-conscious of using public or other people's restrooms or simply do not like to have a bowel movement. This can lead to serious constipation and other maladies.

Myth #5: Laxatives are the only hope for people that suffer from constipation.
Fact: Remember, laxatives are not a cure for constipation. Treatment for constipation depends on several factors: the cause, the duration and severity. In most cases, dietary and lifestyle changes, increased physical activity, squatting with the HealthStep®, drinking adequate water and eliminating when you have the urge will help relieve symptoms of constipation and help prevent it.

Myth #6: Not everyone experiences constipation.
Fact: Everyone at some point in their life experiences constipation, whether due to improper diet, lack of exercise, not drinking enough water, or emotional stress.

Myth #7: Constipation is not serious.
Fact: Constipation can cause some serious problems such as hemorrhoids, bowel prolapse and fecal impaction.