A more uncommon type of constipation results from an actual obstruction in large intestine. This can be caused by an obstruction such as a tumor or gallstone that is wedged in intestine. High stress levels can also cause muscles in bowel to constrict or contract at different times. Normally muscles in upper part of intestinal tract contract, as lower muscles in bowel relax. When lower muscles in bowel contract or go into a spasm instead of relaxing, problems start to occur.

The bowel may also be obstructed if large intestine has twisted on itself. Sometimes after any type of abdominal surgery scar tissue will grow internally and pinch off or restrict a section of your bowel. Another possible cause of bowel obstruction is from connective tissue diseases such as lupus or scleroderma.

If you’re experiencing symptoms from constipation for more than two weeks, it’s a good idea to seek advice of your doctor. Together you can pinpoint causes of your constipation and choose best treatment options.

Make sure you pay attention to your bowel habits and keep your colon and intestinal tract clean. Do not consume products containing aspartame, mineral oil, milk of magnesia or high fat content.

Increasing your water intake, exercise, a high fiber diet and using a safe and natural oxygen based intestinal cleanser such as “Oxy-Powder” can keep your bowels regular.

A clean colon can prevent and reduce: Bad breath, body odor, constipation, depression, diverticulitis, colon cancer, fatigue, gas, stomach pain, bloating, weight gain, headaches, hemorroids, indigestion, appendicitis, insomnia and varicose veins.

8. Being overweight may have an effect on your self-esteem that, in turn, will have a negative effect on your overall health.

Assessing Your Risk

Body Mass Index or BMI is an estimate of your total body fat. You can see a charts for calculating BMI here: http://www.nutricounter.com/articles/bmi.htm

Weight loss is recommended if your BMI is over 30.

Weight loss is recommended if your BMI is 25 – 30 and you also have two or more of following risk factors:

1. If you’re a man, a waist circumference of over 40 inches. 2. If you’re a woman, a waist circumference of over 35 inches. 3. High blood pressure 4. High cholesterol 5. High triglycerides 6. High blood glucose 7. Family history of premature heart disease 8. Physical inactivity 9. Cigarette smoking

By above standards, if you think you need to lose weight, you should see your health care provider for a more accurate assessment.

Need help losing weight? Come and visit NutriCounter web site and learn how you can lose weight and keep it off: http://www.nutricounter.com