Are You Pooping?!

So many people struggle with constipation yet we are taught to believe this is normal. News flash, it is not normal. On average, you should have two banana sized poops a day. Everyone is going to vary slightly, but if you are going no times a day, something is wrong. The Bristol Stool Chart is a diagnostic tool for understanding what your waste might be like. Aim for a 3!

Pooping is your body's way of eliminating toxins. What happens to the toxins if not being evacuated? They are going to be reabsorbed into the body, putting pressure on your liver and digestive system. As the stool sits, it can start to ferment, causing bloating, gas and cramping. Constipation can cause sluggishness, brain fog, skin irritation, including acne, hemorrhoids, pelvic organ prolapse, loss of appetite and food aversion, acid reflux, headaches, mood disruptions due to the gut-brain connection, and even diarrhea. Many clients tell me they are not constipated because they experience daily diarrhea, but the truth is, when the "pipes" are backed up, the only thing moving through is liquid.

Before diving into an over-the-counter laxative, let's look at some natural alternatives:

• raw celery is know as the colon's toothbrush, so eat 3 stalks a day to help clean out those pipes. Buy organic!

• magnesium citrate is a natural laxative that also gives the added benefit of magnesium, which we desperately need.

• drink lots of water! Aim for half your body weight in ounces per day.

• chia pudding can be made with milk (preferably almond or coconut as many react to dairy), which creates a delicious snack. Mix in things like cocoa powder, cinnamon, nuts, seeds, or berries for even more flavor. Chia is a gentle way to move waste through the colon due to its high moisture content and fiber.

• Consider have colon hydrotherapy (i.e.: colonic). A trained practitioner will perform a procedure that irrigates the colon, allowing (in some cases) pounds of waste to come out!

• Coffee enemas are a staple of the Gerson Therapy and bring relief to many people seeking health. Though the goal isn't bowel cleansing with the coffee enema, it is a nice by-product of doing it. Plus, your liver gets the added boost as glutathione production is increased by 700% each enema! I carry the kits for purchase for those interested!