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Reclaiming Your Liver Health: A Guide to Fatty Liver Detoxification with Hemlock Pharmacy

The liver, our body’s unsung hero, tirelessly performs over 500 essential functions to keep us healthy. One of its primary roles is to filter toxins and waste products from our bloodstream. However, unhealthy lifestyle choices can overburden the liver, leading to a condition called fatty liver disease (FLD). This article will delve into FLD, explore natural detoxification methods, and introduce Hemlock Pharmacy’s range of products that can support your journey towards a healthier liver.

Understanding Fatty Liver Disease

FLD is a spectrum of liver conditions characterized by an excessive buildup of fat in the liver cells. It can range from simple steatosis (fatty liver) to more severe forms like nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to inflammation and scarring. While excessive alcohol consumption is a known risk factor, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming increasingly prevalent, affecting millions globally.

Risk Factors for Fatty Liver Disease

Several factors can contribute to the development of FLD, including:

  • Obesity and overweight: Excess body fat, particularly visceral fat around the abdomen, increases the risk of FLD.
  • Insulin resistance: When the body struggles to utilize insulin effectively, it can lead to fat accumulation in the liver.
  • Metabolic syndrome: A cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and unhealthy cholesterol levels, significantly increases the risk of FLD.
  • Diet: A diet high in saturated fats, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates can contribute to FLD.
  • Certain medications: Some medications can have side effects that lead to fat accumulation in the liver.

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

FLD often progresses silently without any noticeable symptoms. However, in some cases, individuals may experience:

  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Upper right abdominal pain or discomfort

The Importance of Liver Detoxification

The liver naturally detoxifies our bodies. However, unhealthy lifestyle habits can compromise its ability to function optimally. Liver detoxification aims to support the liver’s natural cleansing processes, promoting overall well-being.

Natural Approaches to Fatty Liver Detoxification

Several natural strategies can support your liver’s detoxification process:

  • Dietary Changes: Shifting towards a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can significantly improve liver health. Limiting saturated fats, processed foods, and sugary drinks is crucial.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity helps manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity, both beneficial for liver health.
  • Weight Management: Losing weight, even a modest amount, can significantly improve liver function in individuals with FLD.
  • Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to allow the liver time to repair and regenerate.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can negatively impact liver health. Techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can be helpful.

Hemlock Pharmacy: Your Partner in Liver Health

Hemlock Pharmacy understands the importance of a healthy liver. They offer a range of natural products that can effectively support your liver detoxification journey:

  • Milk Thistle: A well-researched herb with silymarin, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that protects liver cells and promotes regeneration.
  • Dandelion Root: A natural diuretic that helps eliminate toxins and excess fluids from the body, reducing stress on the liver.
  • N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): An amino acid that supports glutathione production, the body’s master antioxidant, crucial for detoxification processes.
  • Turmeric: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can benefit liver health.
  • B Vitamins: Play a vital role in liver function and metabolism. Vitamin B complex supplements can be helpful, especially for individuals with deficiencies.

Remember: It’s vital to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications. They can advise on the appropriate dosage and potential interactions.

Conclusion

Fatty liver disease is a growing concern, but with early intervention and lifestyle modifications, it can be effectively managed. Hemlock Pharmacy’s natural product range, coupled with a commitment to healthy habits, can empower you to reclaim your liver health and optimize your overall well-being.

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Clearing the Way: A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Dark Marks and Pimples with Hemlock Pharmacy Products

Introduction:
In the quest for clear, radiant skin, battling dark marks and pesky pimples is a common struggle for many. However, with the right approach and effective skincare products, achieving a flawless complexion is within reach. In this blog, we’ll delve into the causes of dark marks and pimples, explore key strategies for managing them, and highlight the role of Hemlock.co.ke products in your skincare routine.

Understanding Dark Marks and Pimples:
Dark marks, also known as hyperpigmentation, occur when excess melanin forms deposits in the skin, resulting in areas of discoloration. Pimples, on the other hand, are caused by clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation, often leading to redness, swelling, and sometimes scarring.

Effective Strategies for Managing Dark Marks and Pimples:
1. Gentle Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Hemlock.co.ke offers a range of cleansers tailored to different skin types, ensuring a clean canvas for subsequent treatments.

2. Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation helps slough off dead skin cells, preventing clogged pores and promoting cell turnover. Look for exfoliants with ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid, such as those found in Hemlock.co.ke’s exfoliating toners and serums.

3. Targeted Treatments: Incorporate targeted treatments to address specific concerns, such as dark marks and pimples. Hemlock.co.ke’s spot treatments and serums are formulated with potent ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and retinol to fade dark spots and combat acne-causing bacteria.

4. Hydration: Hydration is key to maintaining healthy, balanced skin. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers to hydrate without clogging pores. Hemlock.co.ke’s moisturizers are infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, ensuring optimal moisture levels without greasiness.

5. Sun Protection: Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential in preventing further darkening of existing marks and minimizing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Hemlock.co.ke offers a range of broad-spectrum sunscreens with varying SPF levels to suit your needs.

The Role of Hemlock.co.ke Products:
Hemlock.co.ke is committed to providing high-quality skincare solutions backed by science and innovation. Their products are formulated with clinically proven ingredients to deliver visible results, helping you achieve your skincare goals with confidence.

1. Dark Mark Serum: Hemlock.co.ke’s Dark Mark Serum is specially formulated to target hyperpigmentation, featuring a potent blend of brightening agents like vitamin C, kojic acid, and alpha arbutin. With consistent use, this serum helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone for a luminous complexion.

2. Acne Control Gel: Say goodbye to stubborn pimples with Hemlock.co.ke’s Acne Control Gel. Infused with salicylic acid and tea tree oil, this gel effectively unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, and controls excess oil production, leading to clearer, smoother skin over time.

3. Brightening Toner: For a refreshing boost of radiance, try Hemlock.co.ke’s Brightening Toner. Formulated with niacinamide and witch hazel, this toner helps refine pores, balance oil production, and promote a more even skin tone, leaving your complexion revitalized and glowing.

Conclusion:
Managing dark marks and pimples requires a holistic approach that combines effective skincare practices with targeted treatments. With Hemlock.co.ke products, you can address these concerns head-on, confident in the knowledge that you’re using clinically proven formulations to achieve your best skin yet. Embrace the journey to clearer, more radiant skin with Hemlock.co.ke as your trusted skincare ally.

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Understanding and Managing Haemorrhoids and Piles with Hemlock Pharmacy

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are a common health issue that can cause discomfort and pain. They occur when the veins in the rectum or anus become swollen and inflamed. Fortunately, there are various ways to manage this condition, and Hemlock Pharmacy, a leading pharmacy store in Kenya, offers a range of products that can help.

What Causes Haemorrhoids and Piles?

Haemorrhoids can be caused by several factors, including straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods, obesity, and pregnancy. They can also be more common as people age, as the tissues that support the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken and stretch.

Hemlock Pharmacy: Your Partner in Health

Hemlock Pharmacy is committed to providing quality healthcare products and services. They offer over-the-counter medication, prescription refills, home delivery services, and more. For haemorrhoids and piles management, they provide a variety of healthcare products.

Hemlock Pharmacy Products for Haemorrhoids and Piles Management

One of the products offered by Hemlock Pharmacy for haemorrhoids and piles management is the Anusol Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment Suppositories. These suppositories help to relieve the swelling, itch, and irritation of internal piles (haemorrhoids) and other related conditions, such as anal itching1. They contain active ingredients like Bismuth salts, Zinc oxide, and Balsam Peru, which have protective, antiseptic, and healing properties1.

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Haemorrhoids and Piles

In addition to using Hemlock Pharmacy’s products, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage haemorrhoids and piles. These include eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and avoiding straining during bowel movements.

Conclusion

Managing haemorrhoids and piles can significantly improve your quality of life. Hemlock Pharmacy, with its wide range of products, can be your partner in this journey. Remember, it’s always important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment.

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Understanding the Role of Dopamine in Mental Health Disorders

Introduction

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain, plays a crucial role in many functions, including motivation, mood, attention, and memory. It has a direct impact on the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord. Dopamine is also part of our brain’s reward system, reinforcing feelings of pleasure when we engage in rewarding activities.

Dopamine and Mental Health Disorders

When there is a dopamine disorder, one may experience a decline in neurocognitive functions, which relates to memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Dopamine is involved in many psychological illnesses. High dopamine symptoms include anxiety, excessive energy, insomnia, and hallucinations.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a mental health condition primarily distinguished by symptoms of psychosis. People with schizophrenia experience hallucinations and delusions. Hallucinations involve perceiving things that aren’t there, while delusions are false, irrational beliefs. Schizophrenia causes symptoms that are more severe than the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder primarily causes extreme mood shifts. A person with bipolar disorder will switch between extreme excitement or mania and depression. This may not happen continuously, meaning that you can experience spontaneous periods of a stable mood followed by periods of extreme mood shifts. When they occur, these shifts can affect their ability to perform daily activities. In some cases, a person with bipolar disorder may also experience hallucinations and delusions.

Hemlock Pharmacy Products for Mental Health Disorders

Hemlock Pharmacy offers a variety of products that can help manage mental health disorders. One such product is the Cipralex 20mg tablet, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain. This improves mood and physical symptoms of depression and also relieves symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

Conclusion

Understanding the role of dopamine in mental health disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder is crucial for effective treatment. Hemlock Pharmacy offers a range of products that can help manage these conditions, providing hope for those affected. Always consult with a healthcare professional for the best treatment options.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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Unveiling the Secrets to Combat Hair Loss: Comprehensive Solutions for Men and Women

Hair loss is a pervasive issue that transcends gender, affecting countless individuals worldwide. It can be a significant source of anxiety and impact one’s self-image. Fortunately, there are effective solutions accessible for both men and women. This comprehensive guide delves into the array of treatments and products offered by Hemlock Pharmacy that promise to not only restore your hair but also bolster your confidence.

Delving Deeper into Hair Loss

Understanding the multifaceted nature of hair loss is crucial. It’s a condition influenced by a myriad of factors, including but not limited to genetics, hormonal shifts, psychological stress, and nutritional gaps. Pinpointing the root cause is imperative for tailoring the appropriate treatment strategy.

Holistic Solutions for Hair Restoration

Nutritional Interventions and Supplementation

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in hair health. A diet replete with protein and vital nutrients lays the foundation for robust hair growth. Hemlock Pharmacy’s Health Aid Hair-vit Capsules are formulated with a potent mix of vitamins and minerals that provide comprehensive nourishment for your hair.

Topical Remedies

Minoxidil, an over-the-counter medication, has garnered widespread acclaim for its hair growth-stimulating properties. Hemlock Pharmacy takes pride in offering Kaminomoto Hair Growth Tonic II, a premium concoction enriched with minoxidil and a suite of other advantageous components designed to thwart premature hair loss.

Specialized Hair Care Products

The right shampoo and conditioner can make a world of difference. Hemlock Pharmacy’s Sebamed Anti-Hairloss Shampoo is engineered to invigorate scalp circulation, diminishing hair loss and fostering robust hair growth.

Cutting-Edge Treatment Modalities

For those seeking avant-garde solutions, modalities such as low-level laser light therapy present an innovative approach. These treatments harness the power of light to rejuvenate hair follicles and catalyze regrowth.

Hemlock Pharmacy: Your Trusted Ally in Hair Care

Hemlock Pharmacy curates an extensive selection of products meticulously crafted to address hair loss. Their repertoire includes supplements, topical solutions, and specialized hair care essentials, ensuring a remedy that resonates with your unique needs.

It’s essential to remember that early intervention is paramount in managing hair loss effectively. Engage with a healthcare professional to ascertain the most beneficial course of action tailored to your individual circumstances.

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Unveiling Cushing’s Syndrome: Understanding Its Causes and Effects

Introduction

Cushing’s syndrome, though rare, casts a significant shadow on the lives of those affected by it. This hormonal disorder, characterized by excessive levels of cortisol in the body, can wreak havoc on one’s physical and emotional well-being. Understanding the causes behind Cushing’s syndrome is crucial for early detection, proper diagnosis, and effective management of this challenging condition.

What is Cushing’s Syndrome?

Cushing’s syndrome is a complex medical condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone.” Cortisol plays a vital role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and stress management. However, when cortisol levels become chronically elevated, it can lead to a myriad of health problems.

Causes of Cushing’s Syndrome

  • Exogenous Corticosteroids: Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, whether oral, topical, or inhaled, can trigger Cushing’s syndrome. These medications are commonly prescribed to manage conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. It’s essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients on corticosteroid therapy closely to prevent the development of Cushing’s syndrome.
  • Adrenal Tumors: Tumors in the adrenal glands, known as adrenal adenomas or carcinomas, can overproduce cortisol independently of the body’s natural regulatory mechanisms. These tumors can be benign or malignant and may require surgical intervention for removal.
  • Pituitary Tumors (Cushing’s Disease): The pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, produces adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. In Cushing’s disease, a noncancerous tumor (adenoma) in the pituitary gland causes excessive production of ACTH, leading to elevated cortisol levels. This accounts for the majority of Cushing’s syndrome cases.
  • Ectopic ACTH Production: In some instances, tumors outside the pituitary gland, such as those in the lungs or pancreas, can produce ACTH. These ectopic tumors stimulate the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol, bypassing the normal regulatory pathway.

Effects of Cushing’s Syndrome

The effects of Cushing’s syndrome can be profound and multifaceted, impacting various aspects of a person’s health and quality of life:

  • Metabolic Changes: Increased cortisol levels can lead to weight gain, particularly in the abdominal region, along with insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and eventually diabetes.
  • Musculoskeletal Complications: Chronic exposure to cortisol can weaken bones, leading to osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures.
  • Cardiovascular Issues: Cushing’s syndrome is associated with hypertension, dyslipidemia, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Psychological Effects: Patients with Cushing’s syndrome may experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction.
  • Skin Changes: Cortisol excess can cause thinning of the skin, easy bruising, stretch marks (striae), and increased susceptibility to infections.

Conclusion

Cushing’s syndrome is a complex endocrine disorder with diverse causes and far-reaching effects on health and well-being. Timely recognition of its signs and symptoms, along with a thorough diagnostic evaluation, is crucial for effective management and improved outcomes. By raising awareness about Cushing’s syndrome and its underlying causes, we can empower individuals to seek appropriate medical attention and support, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

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The Impact of Prolonged Use of Corticosteroid Medications: Understanding Risks and Management Strategies

Introduction

Corticosteroids, commonly referred to as steroids, are a class of medications widely used to treat a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. While these drugs can provide significant relief from symptoms and improve quality of life for many patients, their prolonged use can lead to a range of adverse effects. Understanding the risks associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy is crucial for healthcare providers and patients alike to make informed decisions about treatment and minimize potential complications.

Overview of Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids exert their effects by mimicking the action of cortisol, a hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands. They work by suppressing inflammation, reducing immune system activity, and inhibiting the release of substances that contribute to allergic and autoimmune reactions. Common corticosteroids include prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, and hydrocortisone, among others.

Effects of Prolonged Use

  • Bone Health: Perhaps one of the most well-known side effects of long-term corticosteroid use is the increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Corticosteroids interfere with bone formation and accelerate bone resorption, leading to decreased bone mineral density and increased susceptibility to fractures, particularly in weight-bearing bones.
  • Metabolic Effects: Prolonged corticosteroid therapy can induce metabolic changes such as insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and ultimately, diabetes mellitus. These medications may also promote weight gain, redistribution of body fat (resulting in central obesity and a characteristic “moon face”), and increased appetite.
  • Adrenal Suppression: Chronic corticosteroid use can suppress the function of the adrenal glands, leading to adrenal insufficiency. Abrupt discontinuation of corticosteroids after prolonged therapy can precipitate adrenal crisis, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension.
  • Cardiovascular Effects: Long-term corticosteroid therapy has been associated with an increased risk of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. These medications can elevate blood pressure, promote sodium and water retention, and alter lipid metabolism, contributing to cardiovascular complications over time.
  • Immunosuppression and Infection Risk: While corticosteroids suppress inflammation and immune system activity, they also impair the body’s ability to fight infections. Prolonged use of these medications can increase the risk of opportunistic infections, reactivation of latent infections (such as tuberculosis), and delay wound healing.

Management Strategies

  • Risk Assessment: Healthcare providers should carefully assess the risks and benefits of corticosteroid therapy for each patient, taking into account factors such as the underlying condition being treated, dose and duration of treatment, and individual risk factors for adverse effects.
  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of patients receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy is essential to detect and manage potential complications promptly. This includes monitoring bone mineral density, blood glucose levels, blood pressure, lipid profiles, adrenal function, and signs of infection.
  • Minimizing Exposure: Whenever possible, healthcare providers should strive to use the lowest effective dose of corticosteroids for the shortest duration necessary to achieve treatment goals. Non-pharmacological interventions and alternative treatment modalities should be considered when appropriate.
  • Adrenal Insufficiency Prevention: Patients receiving prolonged corticosteroid therapy should be educated about the risk of adrenal suppression and instructed on the importance of gradual dose tapering under medical supervision to prevent adrenal crisis.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Patients should be encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, smoking cessation, and moderation of alcohol consumption, to mitigate some of the metabolic and cardiovascular risks associated with corticosteroid use.

Conclusion

While corticosteroids are invaluable medications for the management of many inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, their prolonged use carries significant risks of adverse effects. Healthcare providers must weigh these risks against the benefits of treatment and implement appropriate monitoring and management strategies to optimize patient outcomes. By fostering a collaborative approach between patients and providers and promoting judicious use of corticosteroids, it is possible to minimize the impact of long-term therapy on patient health and well-being.

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Sleep Disorders: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Sleep disorders can significantly impact our well-being. Let’s explore some common types of sleep disorders and their potential remedies:

  1. Insomnia:

Description: Insomnia is characterized by ongoing difficulty falling or remaining asleep despite wanting to sleep and having enough time for it.

Symptoms: People with insomnia experience daytime sleepiness and may have difficulty functioning while awake.

Treatment:

  • Good Sleep Hygiene: Establish a consistent sleep routine, avoid caffeine or heavy meals before bedtime, and create a comfortable sleep environment.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy can help change behavior patterns and thoughts related to sleep.
  • Medications: Sleep aids may be prescribed for short-term relief. Some prescription medicines can also be of help in some cases.  Here are some common insomnia medications:
    • Eszopiclone (Lunesta):Eszopiclone is a sedative-hypnotic medication used to improve sleep onset and maintenance. It helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Requires a doctor’s prescription.
    • Zolpidem (Stilnox, Ambien, Ambien CR, Edluar, Nitrest): Zolpidem is another sedative-hypnotic drug. It promotes sleep by enhancing the effects of GABA (a neurotransmitter). Requires a doctor’s prescription.
    • Quviviq (Daridorexant): Quviviq is a newer medication for insomnia. It targets orexin receptors in the brain to regulate sleep-wake cycles. Requires a doctor’s prescription.
    • Temazepam (Restoril): Temazepam belongs to the benzodiazepine class. It helps with sleep onset and maintenance. Requires a doctor’s prescription.
    • Amitriptyline(Off-label use): Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. It can be used off-label to improve sleep quality. Requires a doctor’s prescription.

2. Sleep Apnea:

Description: Sleep apnea is a common sleep-related breathing disorder that disrupts breathing at night.

Treatment:

3. Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder:

Description: This disorder involves irregular sleep-wake patterns due to a disrupted circadian rhythm.

Treatment:

    • Light Therapy: Exposure to bright light in the morning can help reset the body’s internal clock.
    • Melatonin Supplements: Melatonin can regulate sleep-wake cycles.

4. Other Sleep Disorders:

  • Parasomnias: Abnormal behaviors during sleep (e.g., sleepwalking, night terrors).
  • REM Sleep Behavior Disorder: Acting out dreams during REM sleep.
  • Consult a Doctor: If you experience sleep issues or daytime fatigue, seek professional advice.

Remember, individual treatment plans vary, and it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Get in touch with us via +254757646014.

Prioritizing good sleep habits and seeking professional help can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health.

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Ways to get constipation relief

Though constipation may be a common problem, it is still uncomfortable and stressful when it strikes.

What is constipation though?

Constipation is when a person has difficulty passing stool. It can also cause pain, bloating, nausea, and other symptoms. Depending on the cause, medical treatments and home remedies may help.

This can happen due to a number of reasons. The slower the food stool moves through the digestive tract, the more the colon absorbs water from it, hence the harder the feces becomes.

At times a person may require urgent medical attention especially where constipation results to a blockage in the large or small intestine, this blockage normally may be due to lack of fiber in your diet or lack of rehydration.

Symptoms of constipation.

  • Difficulty passing stool
  • Straining when passing stool
  • Passing less stool than ususla
  • Dry, lumpy or hard stool
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Feeling bloated
  • Loss in appetite

Happily, most people who experience these symptoms can easily get a relief with simple home remedies for example diet changes, hydration and use of laxatives.

Here is a summary of the ways through which we can easily manage constipation at home.

  1. Hydration

It’s one of the simplest ways to deal with constipation, but most people tend to assume until they are caught up by it. Water, other liquids and foods with high water content can help fiber work better, making stool softer and easier to pass.

2. Osmotic laxatives

Osmotic laxatives are a type of laxatives used for treating constipation. In the intestine, osmotic agents pull water from the surrounding tissues using a process known as osmosis. Excess moisture in the intestine results in softer stools that are easier to pass. It is vital to drink lots of water while taking osmotic laxatives to improve their efficiency and to decrease the possibility of gas and cramps. Examples are; glycerine, lactulose, sorbitol, macrogol and polyethylene glycol.

3. Stool softeners

These are medications that can help treat mild constipation, they are classified under emollient laxatives. They cause fats and water to penetrate to the stool, making it move more easily through the digestive system. Examples include ducosate, Colace.

4. Lubricants

Lubricants, such as mineral oil, help stools slide out with more ease. They may be a good choice if your stools feel stuck low in your bowels, if you have an internal tear or “fissure,” or if you have pain from hemorrhoids during bowel movements. Mineral oil is taken by mouth and can cause pneumonia if aspirated into the lungs.

5. Stimulant laxatives

These are laxatives that stimulate the lining of the intestine to propel the stool out. They provide a quick relief but should only be used when necessary, examples include senokot(senna) and bisacodyl tablets(dulcolax).

6. Enema

Enemas are another option for constipation relief. They mechanically flush stool from the rectum and lower part of the large intestine.

An enema works by loosening the stool in the rectum, thereby triggering the rectal muscles to squeeze as a reaction to their being stretched. An example is fleet enema.

7. Dietary fiber

Fiber needs vary by age and sex, but generally adults should get 22 to 34 grams of fiber a day.

There are two different types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Both types of fiber are important for health, digestion, and preventing diseases. But they act differently in the body.

Soluble fiber absorbs the water in your food. In doing so, it turns to gel, which slows digestion. Some types of soluble fiber may help lower cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. Soluble fiber is found in the following foods: oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas and some fruits and vegetables

Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, doesn’t absorb water and adds bulk to your stool. It can help food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestine, relieving constipation. Insoluble fiber can be found in foods such as: wheat bran, vegetables, whole grains.

8. Fiber supplements

For individuals who are not obtaining their daily fiber needs through diet, fiber supplements are a convenient way to enhance a low-fiber diet.

Fiber supplements vary in their active ingredients. Some have soluble fibers like; psyllium and methylcellulose, while others contain insoluble fiber, wheat bran.

Fiber supplements are among the safest ways to promote regular bowel movements, though they do act slowly and can cause gas and bloating. You should drink plenty of fluids when taking supplements.

If a person has severe symptoms or discomfort, or if symptoms get worse, it is best to contact a doctor for advice.

 

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Nutrition and healthy diet

Probiotics vs Prebiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria (microbes) and yeasts that have beneficial effects on your body. These microorganisms live with us and help support our bodily functions and health. They do so by maintaining or improving the “good” bacteria (normal microflora) in the body. Though some of these microorganisms aren’t useful to the human body (germs) and can be harmful. But the beneficial microbes, like probiotics, help to control the potentially harmful types.

Prebiotics are foods typically high-fiber foods that act as food for normal microflora.

What do probiotics do?

These health products contribute live, beneficial microorganisms to the populations within your gut and elsewhere, in order to strengthen those communities. An imbalance called ‘dysbiosis’ that usually happens in the gut due to a deficit of the microbes is normally treated by the probiotics and fecal microbiota transplants.

Dysbiosis presents as a wide range of digestive disturbance symptoms such as; diarrhea, cramping, constipation, bloating and indigestion. Some of the products that can be used to manage these symptoms includesupplements such as; ColoNormax EXTRA, Doflora Sachets and many more.

Research is ongoing into the relationship of the gut microflora to disease. The health benefits of currently available probiotics and prebiotics have not been conclusively proved.

However, side effects are rare, and most healthy adults can safely add foods that contain prebiotics and probiotics to their diets. Future research may lead to advanced probiotics with greater potential to improve health.

What do prebiotics do?

In 2016 the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) produced the following definition of prebiotics: a substrate that is selectively used by a host microorganism to produce a health benefit. In 2021, The Global Prebiotic Association (GPA) defined a prebiotic as a product or ingredient that is utilized in the microbiota producing a health or performance benefit.

Dietary prebiotics are typically non-digestible fiber compounds that pass undigested through the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract and help growth or activity of advantageous bacteria in the colon by acting as substrates for them.

When the prebiotic concept was first introduced in 1995, the primary focus was on the effects that prebiotics confer on Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus. In the recent years, the current prebiotic targets have expanded to a wider range of microbes, including Roseburia spp., Eubacterium spp., Akkermansia spp., Christensenella spp., Propionibacterium spp. and Faecalibacterium spp.

These bacteria have been highlighted as key probiotics and beneficial gut bacteria as they may have several beneficial effects on the host in terms of improving digestion (including but not limited to enhancing mineral absorption) and the effectiveness and intrinsic strength of the immune system.

Both Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus have been shown to have differing prebiotic specificity and to selectively ferment prebiotic fiber based on the enzymes characteristic of the bacterial population. Thus, Lactobacilli prefer inulin and fructooligosaccharides, while Bifidobacteria display specificity for inulin, fructooligosaccharides, xylooligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides.

Studies have also shown that prebiotics, besides helping growth of beneficial gut bacteria, can also inhibit detrimental and potentially pathogenic microbes in the gut, such as clostridia.

If you’re taking probiotics for a specific purpose, and the probiotics are working, you should be able to tell that you’re feeling better. For example, if you’re taking them to help relieve constipation or diarrhea, you should notice your poops becoming more regulated over time.

Many probiotics produce a by-product called short-chain fatty acids in your gut. These by-products have many benefits to your gut health, but a sudden influx of them could cause temporary diarrhea. Other probiotics produce gases in your gut as by-products. If you suddenly have more of them than usual, you might notice increased bloating and gas during digestion. These symptoms should resolve within a few days.

Different probiotic products may help improve your skin health, your vaginal health or your gut health and build up your immunity in general.

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