There are enough statistics around to prove, that the older you get, the more the chances are that of your getting constipation. Many seniors are said to suffer from this condition and that too silently. However, perhaps all that changed because of the 2015 movie, “Piku”, in which superstar Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone starred. This movie rather funnily brought to the fore the discussions about a taboo topic, which many elders suffer silently.
Movie Plot
In the movie, Bhaskor, a Bengali babu is suffering from constipation, so his conversations with people around, especially his daughter usually revolves around this only. This irritates and frustrates the daughter Piku, and at times, she is even taken ashamed, as he totally abashes her. The story is a hilarious take on how they need to travel and Bhaskor is afraid of flights, and trains and so they end up taking a road trip all the way from Delhi to Kolkatta. And the journey is not without his ‘singhasan’ or mobile toilet, tied atop the Innova they travel in. There are many funny scenes wherein discussions border on this subject, remedies and more. All in all, it was an excellent movie, where all the actors involved in, did full justice to their roles.
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What is constipation?
If you have less than normal bowel movements, or if the stools are hard, and it becomes painful and tough to pass them, then you may be having constipation. The normal bowel movement is what you have had for many years, and may change from person to person. So, it could be once, twice or thrice.
Causes
One of the most common causes of constipation is not having enough fibres in the regular diet. Including whole grains, fruits and vegetables in the diet can help with this to a lot extent. Also, a few foods like dairy products, sweets, and high-fat meat can aid constipation as well. Eating processed foods rather than freshly cooked meals is also not suitable for this condition. Apart from this, people do not drink enough water will also end up with constipation.
Another reason for constipation could be lack of regular exercise, and even a few medications can cause this condition. And also, it is important to try and pass stools when you feel the urge and not hold it back. This again, in the long run, can cause constipation.
Treatment and prevention
It is always better to prevent constipation, rather than having it and taking medicines for the same. To prevent oneself from getting constipation, here are a few steps that can help.
1. Drink lots of fluids, including water on a regular basis, this will keep the stools from hardening and will also aid in the passing of the stools.
2. Ensure to have some regular exercise for at least 15 to 30 minutes, like Yoga, or walking to keep the fit and active. This will also help in having regular bowel movements.
3. Include lots of high fibre foods in your diet on a regular basis. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, along with oats, and whole grains. Also, eat prunes, apricots and figs as that also help in preventing constipation.
4. Avoid alcohol consumption as well as smoking.
With all this, if you consistently face the situation of being constipated, then please consult a doctor. The doctor will conduct the necessary checks and probably suggest some laxatives that can help ease the condition. However, it is important to note that, it is not good to take laxatives for a long period as that too can, in the long run, cause constipation. Hence, it is best to follow the preventive measures.
Home remedies
If you have mild constipation, then please feel free to try some old Indian home remedies that can relieve the condition.
1. Warm water with a teaspoon of lemon and a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of salt can help in relieving the condition. Lemon helps in the digestion and honey can act as a laxative.
2. Triphala Churna or tablets are an age-old Ayurvedic remedy that has been effectively used by people for relief from constipation. This can be purchased as an over the counter medicine in many prominent Ayurvedic shops.
3. Use ghee – Use more ghee in the food, as that can act as a natural laxative. Unless you have been advised by a doctor not to consume ghee, this can be used regularly in the daily diet.
