Preventing Bowel Problems

When people reach their forties, fifties or sixties, they will usually experience some form of bowel trouble such as diverticulosis, irritable bowel, and constipation.   

Here are some healthy habits to prevent bowel trouble:

• Eat a diet high in fiber.  Oat bran, wheat bran, beans, fruits and vegetables are good sources of fiber.
• Avoid routine use of laxatives, since they disrupt the normal rhythm of the bowel.  To ease elimination, take a high-fiber drink / preparation instead.
• Drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.
• Avoid straining when passing stool.

You should see your doctor if you notice blood in the stool, experience severe abdominal pain, pass pencil-thin stools, or note a significant change on your bowel habits.

Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com