There are many factors that can cause constipation including a
diet lacking in soluble fiber, dehydration, insufficient digestive enzymes, stress, a lazy bowel, lack of exercise, toxicity, and poor liver function, but one of the main reasons for chronic (long-term) constipation is dysbiosis.
Dysbiosis is where there is an imbalance of the microorganisms within our intestines.
We have certain organisms in our gastrointestinal tract that help break down our food, absorb nutrients, and most importantly, keep our gut healthy and build our immunity as nearly 80% of our immune system is located in the intestines.
Therefore it is important to make sure we have a plentiful supply of the healthy flora instead of an overpopulation of the destructive microorganisms.
If you suffer from chronic constipation and have a healthy diet and lifestyle then you may need to treat dysbiosis.
The following herbs and supplements can help to kill off unfriendly parasites, bacteria, yeasts and fungii and restore balance to the gut flora:
* Probiotics (a blend containing both lactobacillus and bifidobacterium)
* Prebiotics which is the food that healthy bacteria feed on (oats, apples, bananas, artichoke, legumes, wholegrains, leafy greens)
* Wormwood, Black Walnut hull, Cloves, Thyme, Oregano, Aloe vera, Kyolic garlic
*Activated charcoal, Caprylic acid, Diatomaceous earth
Also be aware that if you are on any stomach acid-reducing medications/antacids this may be a major consideration in chronic constipation as they suppress gastric acid production which is necessary for healthy digestion and bowel motility.
Antacids may also suppress stomach acid so low that harmful organisms such as Helicobacter pylori can thrive in this low acid environment, causing dysbiosis.
Helicobacter pylori has been linked to stomach ulcers and stomach cancer and must be treated.