But What Does that Mean?
It isn’t something in everyday conversation, well unless you are a Nutritionist!
I remember the start of the bowel movement talks when I was attending nutrition school twenty years ago and now I’m so used to discussing this topic, and it is a topic that needs more education and discussion.
Did you Know?
- The gut (esophagus to the anus known as the GI-Gastrointestinal System) is known as the second brain.
- In short, if the colon is healthy, the mood is balanced.
- The gut contains 100 million neurons.
- 95% of the neurotransmitter serotonin (the feel-good hormone) is found in the gut.
- The colon is connected to every part of the Healthy Body, see the chart below.
- Healthy bowel movements consist of 2-3 really good (formed, comfortable) bowel movements per day.
- In Canada, over one-third of doctor visits are constipation related.
- Laxatives are among the top-selling over the counter medicines. In 2016 revenues reached 1.3 billion.
- Dr. Bernard Jensen stated that the bowel has to be cared for first for any effective healing to take place.
In the 50 years, I’ve spent helping people to overcome illness, disability, and disease, it has become crystal clear that poor bowel management lies at the root of most peoples’ health problems. Bernard Jensen, D.C., Ph.D., author, world lecturer
Colon Helpers
- If you have to go, go. Don’t hold it. Holding it can lead to toxins being reabsorbed into the bloodstream and may also lead to constipation. The colon is a muscle.
- Seek medical assistance when needed, early detection and prevention save lives. If you are over 50 or experiencing on-going constipation or diarrhea, consult with your physician. Colonoscopies can help in a proper diagnosis.
- Chew your food! chew chew chew, digestion begins in the mouth, the more you chew the easier it is for the rest of the digestive & intestinal system.
- Consider adding a digestive enzyme supplement to help break down foods making elimination easier.
- The lining of the bowel is largely made up of magnesium. When there is low magnesium or deficiency the bowel will be tight. Magnesium is known as the “relaxer”. Magnesium is responsible for hundreds of biochemical reactions in the Healthy Body.
Food
- Fibre: 25-35 grams per day.
- Foods rich in fibre: whole grains, beans, legumes, seeds, hempseed, ground flax and chia seed, fruits, vegetables, nuts, prunes.
- Foods rich in magnesium: nuts, legumes, seeds, spinach, banana, raisins, lima beans, tuna, brown rice, dark chocolate.
- Probiotic and Prebiotic foods for microbiome balance.
- Purified Water: hydrates the intestines helping solid waste form and be eliminated.
- Consider an intestinal formula supplement containing fibre and herbs to assist the elimination organs (skin, liver, kidneys, lungs, intestines).
Strengtheners
- Home Rebounder (quality is key to protect the joints, back, knees). The number One piece of exercise equipment I recommend. Works out every cell in the Healthy Body with only 10 minutes a day, strengthens and tones the digestive and intestinal systems, aids in lymphatic circulation (the lymphatic system does not have a pump so we need activity to help the removal of waste), and so much more. https://cellercise.com/
- Kegel exercises help strengthen the muscles of the entire colon and improve muscle contraction, thereby, helping control of and improving bowel movements.
- Yoga, Tai Qi, Qi Gong, walking: works on the internal organs, helps overall well-being.
- Breathing exercises: carries oxygen to the organs and helps the removal of toxins.
- Constipation and Indigestion: self-abdominal massage.
- Herbs to cleanse, tone, repair, and strengthen.
In my experience, a happy colon is essential for a healthy life.
Disclaimer: This is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice and does not replace any medical advice. Please consult your health care provider for health concerns.
