Proper elimination is vital to detox. I have had this drilled into my head by two doctors. Toxins are not meant to sit in our body and reabsorb. Since constipation comes up often and we can not afford to add to our already toxic load, we must work on regularity.
I want to point out that I never thought I was constipated because I go daily but several scans over the years showed I am despite that. So you CAN be constipated even if you go daily.
Lots of digestive symptoms such as constipation, gas/bloating, and abdominal discomfort occur in chronic Lyme disease. Lyme bacteria can infect the gastrointestinal tract causing inflammation that contributes to these digestive symptoms. Food sensitivities can increase this inflammation.
The palsy of the nerves can cause a decrease in the muscular contractions that move the contents of the intestines. I have had scans verify this was happening in me.
Here are some of our favorite products if you have this issue. Many are ones my lyme doctor has suggested or our members use. Always ask your doctor if one of these are right for you. Below I will include lifestyle tips as well as supplements.
LIFESTYLE
*DIET TIPS
There are many diet tips but these are a just a few that are mentioned often.
1.Eating more vegetables (their fiber content increase the weight and size of stool so that it moves more easily through your GI tract)
2. Incorporate flax seed or chia seed (if you tolerate), as those are packed with fiber and can aid constipation. Some people do not
tolerate them.
3. Prunes have been shown to increase the frequency of bowel movements as it works as a natural stool softener. Some other easy to digest foods that may help are berries, bananas, or avocado.
4. Low FODMAP diet may help relieve constipation as well.
*MOVE AROUND
Move around more (short walks, gentle yoga etc). We need to focus on moving more to speed up motility. I know many of us our stuck in bed and can not be active because of symptoms and I understand that. Staying inactive for long periods of time does contribute to being constipated so we must try.
*STAY HYDRATED
Fluids will soften stool. Warm liquids are most known to stimulate digestion. First thing in morning is a great time to do this.
*STIMULATING THE VAGUS NERVE
Stimulating the vagus nerve with a few exercises can help constipation. Gargling, gagging or humming are mentioned the most. Singing loudly or splashing cold water in your face are other options.
*SQUATTY POTTY
Putting your body into the most natural position to eliminate waste. Makes a big difference.
SUPPLEMENTS
Supplements alongside lifestyle changes can really help to get things moving and stay there. I have had to heavily rely on their help.
Most any supplement can be found at 25% off here:
1. MY FAVORITE FIBER - SUNFIBER
This is a prebiotic fiber that I totally believe in.
Sunfiber is a PHGG supplement (partially hydrolyzed guar gum) that can be added to smoothies, yogurt or any drink. It dissolves quick and doesn't get all thick and nasty.
It is certified FODMAP-safe by MONASH University, the creators of the low-FODMAP diet, making it a safe and effective option for those with sensitive digestion. Sunfiber has been shown to help SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) as well as reducing symptoms of IBS and many other digestive disorders. It works for DIARRHEA and CONSTIPATION. It’s non-GMO and is 100 percent gluten free.
25% off
2. ALOE
Many use aloe latex as a laxative and it is a well researched remedy. The anthraquinones present in the latex create a laxative effect by increasing intestinal water content. This stimulates mucus secretion and the contractions that break down food. You can buy aloe juice or I prefer a high quality capsule. The Global Healing brand Aloe capsules are 25% off on discount above. This is the one I use now.
3. COD LIVER OIL
A traditional remedy used upon waking is taking one tablespoon of cod liver oil mixed with carrot juice. I have never tried that particular remedy but plan to. I have included it here as it is mentioned so often in natural ways to combat constipation. Learn how it also naturally increases Vitamin D below. Rositas is the top recommended brand and amazing discount above. https://www.riseabovelyme.com/post/cod-liver-oil-to-increase-vitamin-d-naturally
4. THIAMINE
When Thiamine (B1) is low, digestion slows that can cause constipation. My lyme doctor told me to take the Ecological Formulas brand called Allithiamine. He said it is a better form. It is 25% off on the link above.
More info on Thiamine here:
5. TRIPHALA
Triphala is an ancient remedy that has been in various studies and found to be an effective solution for constipation. My doctor has recommended it to me several times. I definitely noticed a difference. He suggested the Organic India brand of Triphala. It is 25% off on the discount above.
More info about Triphala here:
6. TEAS
Dandelion root (does have some reasons to avoid), mint and ginger are all known to help digestion and aid constipation. Licorice, peppermint, marshmallow root and chamomile are often mentioned. I buy my organic tea on Fullscript at 25% off. I like Organic India and Buddha brand. Both are carried there. Best price I have found.
7. PROBIOTICS
Probiotics are shown to increase number of bowel movements. I rotate two different ones. Seeking Health Probiota HistaminX and Megaspore. Both of those are 25% off above.
Learn more about probiotics here:
8. MAGNESIUM
Magnesium citrate and oxide are mentioned the most for constipation. Some top Lyme doctors also mention malate helping. Now malate is my personal favorite for general deficiency and pain but I found other forms better when needed for constipation.
I also read rubbing magnesium oil in a circular motion on the abdomen can help but I have never tried that. Almost any magnesium product you need is carried at the 25% off discount found above. Mag Oxide product by Global Healing called Oxy Powder is mentioned often.
Learn more about magnesium and watch my YouTube video here:
9. HIGH DOSE VITAMIN C
When Vitamin C is given as a supplement at high doses, it has a laxative effect. This vitamin increases gastric motility, which means it speeds up the digestive process. Most people reach bowel tolerance between 2,000 and 4,000 mg. These levels increase when the need for vitamin C is greater. Your doctor can guide you on what they think is best.
10. DIGESTIVE ENZYMES
Digestive enzymes can help your constipation because they break down fats, carbs, and protein. I use two kinds before meals. My doctor has me take the Integrative Therapeutics Sensitive Stomach enzymes as well as DAO Histamine Digest enzymes by Diem. I take before I eat. Both are on 25% off. Learn about digestive enzymes here:
Iron and calcium can make constipation worse. Certain prescription medications can also. So keep that in mind.
***Most any supplement can be found at 25% off here:
OTHER POPULAR IDEAS TO TRY:
Below you will find additional product mentions and tips that my doctors have recommended, members have had recommended to them or I found in top articles related to Lyme.
Klaire brand Colon Cleanse (very popular)
Gluccomannan
Integrative Therapeutics Blue Heron
Pure Encapsulations Moltipro
Coconut or flaxseed oil to lubricate the colon
Castor oil
Lemon water (see our post on lemon)
(lemon juice acts as a stimulant to your digestive system and can help flush toxins from your body, providing constipation relief)
Fennel
Constipation candy recipe I plan to try
SYMPTOMS OF CONSTIPATION may include:
Feeling sluggish
Digestive problems
Bloating
Gas
Hard stools
Pellet like stools
Painful bowel movements
Indigestion
Leaky gut
Bowel toxicity
Liver toxicity
Intestinal dysbiosis
Stomach pain
Decreased appetite
Disclaimer: Rise Above Lyme makes no claims about any possible benefit of using any product mentioned within this site. Always consult with your doctor before adding anything. The information shared is based on personal experience, years of accumulated researched resources from Lyme Literate doctors and polls conducted within Lyme groups from actual patient experience using these solution ideas.
What are some of the reasons to avoid dandelion root?