In today's fast food generation and sedentary life styles, not only do we have a problem in America with obesity, we also have a problem with constipation. Something in the past we did not always want to talk about. But in reality we do need to address this as it can have an array of adverse effects on the body.

The colon is a large holding tank for waste material that needs to be eliminated on a daily basis. When this does not occur and you are going only every two, three or more days then you have constipation. After only twenty-four hours if your stool has not been eliminated, the proteins begin to putrefy and your system becomes toxic and the trouble begins. These toxins then get into the bloodstream where the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and lymphatic system needs to work harder to eliminate these poisons. A clean fully functioning colon means that good nutrients are being absorbed into the bloodstream.

The average person will probably reach for laxatives for relief but continued use can actually cause further constipation. If one is only relying on laxatives and continues to eat high fat and junk foods then you can expect further problems.

Here are some tips to help you relieve constipation.

Diet:

Americans tend to over eat. Smaller portions are much better for your system. Also what you eat has impact on your colon. A diet high in fruits and vegetables, grains, legumes are much healthier for your system. Fiber is necessary for elimination. You may want to try psyllium seed for relief, but don't under estimate fruit such as raspberries or blueberries. They have more fiber in one cupful than ten bran muffins. Your parents and grandparents did not have the kind of diet we now have in this generation. They did not eat fast food, processed and junk foods. Nor do any animals on earth eat the way we eat. Animals eat meat, fruit, grasses, nuts and berries.

Our original diet was very simple. I can't say enough about organic foods. It 's natural, just as nature intended it. We can still eat that way but it will require extra time for preparation and discipline on your part to have a healthy colon and body. It will be well worth it. Vitamins like A, E, C and B vitamins are also helpful as well as garlic and aloe vera.

Water:

Water is essential for elimination. You would not expect a toilet to flush waste material without water. So it is with your body. Unfortunately, so many people don't even drink one glass of water a day. The average person needs at least 8, eight-ounce glasses of water per day. Even if you are not thirsty, drink water especially if you are feeling toxic. Note: if you take psyllium seed for relief, you must drink a lot of water with it.

Exercise:

One needs to exercise so that your intestines can speed up the elimination process. Between drinking a lot of water and exercising and a good natural diet, you have a better chance of unclogging yourself. If you do not get relief you may want to try doing coffee or lemon enemas. You may feel less toxic after colon cleansing.

You may want to consult a naturopathic medical practitioner who can suggest supplements, diet and alternative remedies to help with digestive difficulties.

Here's to better health through your colon!