Constipation occurs as
your body ages for a variety of reasons. Inactivity, reduced fluid intake, and
lack of fiber can all contribute. The
use of excessive laxatives can cause dehydration and dependency on medication
for elimination. An alternative to medication is a "Special
Recipe" listed below.
Mix 2 tablespoons of “All
Bran” by Kelloggs or “Fiber One” by
General Mills with 2 tablespoons of applesauce. Take twice
daily with 3 glasses of water.
Increase activity as
much as possible, and be sure to toilet after breakfast
Hints on using the "Special
Recipe":
1. Assure that you are
not already constipated.
2. Increase fiber
slowly, 1 tablespoon a day for first week, then increase to 2 tablespoons.
3. Stop regularly
scheduled laxatives or stool softeners only after the “Special Recipe"
starts to work.
4. Cramps and frequent
stools are a normal effect of using fiber, but will resolve once your body
becomes adjusted.
5. Drink lots of fluid
and exercise as much as possible.