Part 1 of this series discussed the issue of autointoxication. Autointoxication refers to toxins that are reabsorbed when feces is not expelled through normal bowel movements and when constipation is a problem. When those toxins are reabsorbed, undesirable behaviors like aggression and irritability can occur along with the constipation.

Toxins from yeast and bacteria overgrowth can also be directly absorbed from the digestive tract. This is a very common thing that I see in my practice time and time again. When a child is constipated, that can lead to lack of eye contact, behavioral problems and even lack of speech in some children. So if improvements in therapies, and this can be therapies other than the biomedical ones, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, etc. wane and you start to see regression, there could be an underlying constipation issue at play and they are not having regular bowel movements like they should.

To avoid constipation, your child should ideally be having a bowel movement once a day at the minimum or even twice a day. I also have heard many parents say that their child does have a bowel movement everyday but you need to be aware of the size of the bowel movement. Even if the bowel movement is fairly large, the child could have much more stool in their digestive tract that is not being passed, leading to this problem with constipation. Or if their stool is very dry, like small little pellets, that is also a sign of constipation issues and so assessment of the digestive tract is very important. (more…)

Hemorrhoids are a common health condition worldwide. The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep stools soft so they pass easily, thus decreasing pressure and straining, and to empty bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs. Exercise, including walking, and increased fiber in the diet help reduce constipation and straining by producing stools that are softer and easier to pass.

Good sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. In addition, doctors may suggest a bulk stool softener or a fiber supplement such as psyllium or methylcellulose. Along with over-the-counter topical agents, there are several modalities at the disposal of physicians to treat piles. However, many of these modalities can be distressing for the patient. (more…)