3. Questions & Answers
Does constipation cause hemorrhoids?
It is a common conception that constipation causes hemorrhoids and so laxatives are taken. The fact is, constipation does not cause hemorrhoids. It may be an irritating factor resulting in bleeding of the hemorrhoids if the stools are very hard but it is not a causative factor. The bowels are sluggish due to debility of the colon resulting from general systemic enervation and toxicosis.
Why are you against the use of all types of laxatives?
The use of laxatives leads to the very condition they are claimed to remedy. The Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs (1973) states: "Chronic constipation frequently begins during adolescence. The use of laxative agents probably plays a significant role. Many persons begin the use of such agents while in their teens. By the time they become adults, many persons cannot remember when they could maintain themselves without a laxative agent ..."
The editors of Consumer Reports tell us: "The misuse of laxatives is another important cause of chronic constipation. Moreover, there are comparatively few users of cathartics (laxatives) who have not suffered from fissure of the anus or hemorrhoids. If you think you have chronic constipation, the first thing to do is stop taking laxatives."
Mineral oil is one of the most frequent ingredients in laxatives. The dangers associated with its ingestion include:
- Chronic constipation.
- Incompetence of the ileocecal sphincter (this sphincter's function is to prevent backflow of fecal content from the colon into the small intestine).
- Rectal leakage and resulting irritation.
- Malabsorption of nutrients.
- Foods remain in the stomach longer, resulting in putrefaction and fermentation with by-products of toxin bacterial metabolism.
- Lipid pneumonia, a condition where mineral oil has coated the pharynx, thereby gaining access to the trachea and then the lungs.
As you can see, much harm may result from taking laxatives. This is a fragmented approach anyway. You cannot achieve health by palliating symptoms. You must examine your total way of living and correct those errors that caused sickness.
Should I take bran to ensure regular bowel movements?
Many articles and books have been written about the necessity of fiber in our diet. Bran has been claimed to be the ideal fiber to alleviate constipation and to prevent its reoccurrence. A high-fiber diet is supposed to prevent cancer of the colon and assorted other ailments. This again is a fragmented approach with a fragmented food.
Bran is the outer fibrous layer of grains. It is entirely indigestible and passes through the intestinal tract virtually unchanged. Bran does absorb water in the large intestine and this is why it is thought to be a "sure cure" for constipation since more bulky stools result.
Constipation is an indication of total ill health. It is not a separate "disease" in itself or an occurrence that is independent from the rest of the body. When we eat the wrong food, get insufficient rest and sleep, lead a completely sedentary life and disobey the other requirements for health, our entire body is affected. All bodily systems will eventually become weakened and this includes the bowels and constipation results.
It has been suggested that if a person prefers a diet devoid of the natural fibers found in vegetables, fruits and nuts, then bran should be consumed. This is nonsense. There are few people who would not rather eat a juicy piece of watermelon, or a nice sweet orange or a ripe banana than some dry tasteless bran. The fresh fruits will not only provide us with a delightful meal but will supply all necessary nutrients needed to maintain total health. A vital body and colon have no problems.
In addition to being a fragmented food in itself devoid of calories and nutrients, bran is very irritating to the intestinal tract. There are many sharp protrubances on the bran that cause intestinal irritation. Also, a great deal of vital energy is needed to eliminate this worthless fiber. It takes a minimum of twenty-four hours to process bran once it has been ingested.
Wheat and other grains contain large amounts of phytic acid. This compound reduces the absorption of iron in the small intestine. Consuming bran in the amount usually recommended (about one tablespoon before each meal) may result in iron deficiency due to being bound by phytic acid.