Constipation is more common than most people realize. Many assume that if they have a bowel movement almost every day, their digestion is fine. In reality, having only one bowel movement per day often indicates constipation. When waste is not eliminated properly, toxins can accumulate in the body and lead to health problems. If stool remains in the intestines for too long, it may also cause more serious complications.
As you eat new meals, your intestines should be eliminating old waste. Ideally, if you eat three times a day, you should have two to three bowel movements daily. By their 40s, many people may carry 7–9 kilograms of old stool along the intestinal walls. Some individuals may also develop diverticulosis, a condition in which small pouches form in the colon wall, increasing the risk of infection.
The Morning Window
Waking up late can also contribute to constipation. The body has an optimal time for elimination: between 5–7 a.m., natural downward wind energy helps move stool out of the colon. If you wake up late or do not pass stool before 7 a.m., the body can draw waste back into the bloodstream. A simple routine can help—after waking, drink 1–2 glasses of warm water to stimulate the digestive system.
Diet and Fiber
One of the main causes of constipation is the lack of fiber in the modern diet. Processed and fast foods are common, and even in Asian cuisine, where meals are freshly prepared, vegetables are often minimal. Adding more fiber-rich foods—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and sour-tasting fruits and herbs—can help improve regularity.
Hydration
Adequate water intake is equally important. A good guideline is to drink 1 liter of water for every 25 kilograms of body weight each day. For example, someone weighing 50 kilograms should drink about 2 liters daily. It is best to sip small amounts—2–3 swallows at a time—throughout the day, rather than drinking large amounts with meals, which may dilute digestive enzymes. Choose room-temperature or warm water for better digestion.
Supporting Natural Elimination
The body naturally clears waste through sweating, urination, bowel movements, and breathing. These processes should not be suppressed but supported.
- Certain herbs may relieve constipation, but overuse can create dependency and they will not remove hardened stool from the intestines.
- Enemas and colonic irrigation may offer temporary relief, but they carry risks, especially if performed with machines or coffee.
- A safer and more natural approach is to use oral herbal medicine, formulated with a combination of herbs that work in synergy while balancing the potential side effects of individual herbs.
Better Health Through a Clean Colon
By maintaining a balanced diet, drinking enough water, and supporting natural elimination, constipation can often be prevented. Even if you do not suffer from constipation, an occasional gentle colon cleanse can refresh the system, promote cleaner blood, and improve overall health.