Chronic constipation is nearly the norm in modern societies.
​But, what exactly is constipation...how do we define it?

con·sti·pa·tion| ˌkänstəˈpāSH(ə)n | noun
* A condition in which there is difficulty in emptying the bowels, usually associated with hardened feces. 
* A high level of restriction; a pronounced lack of ease.



​Constipation is defined by  transit time. Essentially from the time you ingest food until it comes out as stool should ideally be within 24-48 hours. Anything longer than that and you are constipated. Anything time shorter than that you may have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which is a variation of constipation with the same treatment protocols. See the PDF below for a test to determine your transit time.

Chronic constipation effects more than 20% of the US populations and is as common in children, teens adults and the elderly. For those who care for the elderly it is critical to pay daily attention to their bowel functions and seek professional help from someone who can bring a healthy solution to the problem. 

In my practice I have seen that MD's and Emergency Rooms are not equipped with a proper understanding to solve impaction or chronic constipation. They often recommend products that will cause the colon to balloon above the impaction with disastrous results! 

Bridge to Health offers Emergency Colonics for situations in which a client is impacted. 

Why is constipation a problem.....

• Your colon can store 5-10 lbs of feces for every foot of length....your colon is as long as you are tall!

 

• Stored feces means that bacterial infestations in the form of biofilms can develop within the colon. Go to the "Why do a Series of Colonics Blog" for more information about the serious effects of biofilm growth in the colon.

 

• The bacteria proliferate in the colon along with toxic gases which should be eliminated with the stools. All of this toxicity is then absorbed through the capillary network of the colon into the bloodstream and put an undue burden on the liver and kidneys to eliminate the toxins.

 

• Those who are constipated are more likely to develop SIBO. This excellent article from CytoPlan Blog represents my view of SIBO and how to facilitate a cure without antibiotics or antifungal medications.

 

• Chronic constipation is auto-intoxication that produces a wide variety of symptoms and will eventually lead to autoimmune disorders, liver and gallbladder issues, lethargy, poor concentration, lack of spark...low endocrine function which has serious implications over time.

 

• Chronic constipation can also lead to rupture of the colon. Using laxatives and fiber formulas to try to create a bowel movement when the colon is impacted is the leading cause of colon ruptures. This is a very serious situation that can cause death.

                                Learn more about colon function read this article

Those who suffer from chronic constipation experience these common symptoms...

• Halitosis
• Headaches
• Inflammation & aches and pains in the body
• Lethargy and a general lack of energy
• Hemorrhoids
• Low back pain
• Digestive issues
• SIBO
• Liver complaints & gall stones
• Poor Sleep & irritability
• Brain fog and confusion
• All health issues are made worse with constipation

What are the causes of chronic constipation?

• Diets low in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, high in processed grains, white flour and high in sugar.

 

• Diets high in cheese and processed cheese foods and other non-fermented dairy especially cow's milk which is very high in casein a glue like substance. Casein based protein supplements. Casein is a glue like substance extracted from cows milk dairy, it is literally the stuff that glue is made from... these protein drinks also often contain hidden artificial sweeteners as well.

 

• Highly acidic diets high in meats, especially processed meats and meats with fillers. Keto diet or any version of eating that is low in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables.

 

• Antibiotics, benzodiazepines and opioids and other drugs are constipating.

 

• Emotional issues often play a role in constipation and can be addressed best through Chi Nei Tsang rather than talk therapies. Zero Point Process Sessions have also proven to be effective in the treatment of emotional "blocks"

Is it possible to reverse chronic constipation?
Yes, but with all things related to the manifestation of symptoms, we must first be willing to understand that the symptom is the body talking to you....what is your body saying it needs? Just what does it need? The answers can be very individual, but there are tendencies and patterns that I often see in my Wellness and Colon Hydrotherapy practices.

Explore the Pooping 101 and Chronic Constipation/IBS Recovery Protocols 

What will help alleviate chronic constipation?

• Dietary changes are needed, more fruits and veggies generally and a greater variety of whole foods.

 

• Dehydration is also a common problem.

 

• Bowels are not "trained"...allowing time to sit down to have a bowel movement...too much of I need to go go go! The colon needs time!

 

• Stress is almost always a factor.

 

• Low bile production from the liver.

 

• Withdrawing from medication known to have constipation as a side effect...benzodiazepines, antibiotics especially are problematic. 

 

• Possible minor obstructions, or years of accumulated harden stools.

 

• Low enteric probiotics...something you can't get from a pill. Probiotics are best cultivated not supplemented. 

 

• Colon cleanse products that support the break down of biofilms and improve peristalsis can be helpful, however they are best used with caution and with the supervision of a well educated practitioner.

Bridge to Health offers Online Courses to teach you how to Learn & Heal.

If you are uncertain your constipation issue is chronic consider purchasing a 
Learn and Heal Consult with Vanessa Goldeen Certified Wellness Consultant
​and I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist.

FDA Warning:
​This information is for education only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any disease or medical condition ​

Do this protocol for 1 month, if no change occurs in your bowel movements we need to go to phase two!
Contact me for a Wellness Consultation
Vanessa Goldeen
Bridge to Health 
A Commonsense Approach to Wellness  
Certified Wellness Consultant / I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist / Certified Chi Nei Tsang Practitioner
805-235-8071