- Taking laxatives can lead to potassium depletion over time. It's important to take additional potassium supplements while taking laxatives.
- Some natural remedies are eaten by friendly bacteria in the large intestine, which stimulates smooth muscle and triggers peristalsis.
- The best way to relieve constipation is to identify and address the underlying causes, such as diet and friendly bacteria imbalances.
Constipation is a common issue that affects many people. If you are one of them, you know how uncomfortable and frustrating it can be. Thankfully, there are natural remedies available that can help you get relief. In this article, we will discuss the seven best natural laxatives, as explained by Dr. Eric Berg DC, and how they work.
Understanding the Anatomy of the Digestive System
Before we delve into the best natural laxatives, it's essential to understand the anatomy of the digestive system. According to Dr. Eric Berg DC, the problem with constipation lies mainly in the large intestine, not the small intestine. The large intestine has smooth muscles that contract and push food along, a process known as peristalsis. The seven best natural laxatives work by stimulating the smooth muscle and promoting motility in the large intestine.
1. Senna
Senna is a popular remedy for constipation. It contains a natural chemical that is eaten by friendly bacteria in the large intestine, which stimulates smooth muscle and triggers peristalsis. Senna works best in the large intestine and is less effective in the small intestine.
2. Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada is another popular herbal laxative that works similarly to Senna. It contains a certain chemical that is also eaten by friendly bacteria in the large intestine, which stimulates smooth muscle contraction.
However, Dr. Eric Berg DC warns that taking laxatives can lead to potassium depletion over time. It's important to take additional potassium supplements while taking laxatives to avoid this issue.
3. Black Psyllium
Black psyllium is a type of fiber that swells with water to form a gel that helps move things along the digestive tract. Psyllium seed, in general, is a popular laxative.
4. Castor Oil
Castor oil is another effective natural laxative that comes from castor seeds. It works by stimulating peristalsis in the large intestine.
5. Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that helps relax muscles, including smooth muscle in the digestive tract, to allow food to pass through. Many people add magnesium to herbal remedies to enhance their effects.
6. Potassium
Potassium is another mineral that works in conjunction with magnesium to help relax smooth muscles. It's important to take both minerals together to get the full benefits.
7. Vegetables and Probiotics
Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet and can also help with constipation. Fermented vegetables are particularly effective because they feed friendly bacteria in the large intestine. However, if you have small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), it's essential to be cautious with increasing your vegetable intake as it can cause bloating.
Lastly, taking probiotics can help restore friendly bacteria in the gut, which can improve overall digestion and relieve constipation.
Debunking the Myth of Laxative Addiction
Dr. Eric Berg DC addresses a common concern about the addiction potential of laxatives. He argues that the toxic effects of chronic constipation on the body far outweigh any minor side effects of taking laxatives. While taking laxatives can cause a small drop in potassium, it's easily fixable by taking additional supplements. The best way to relieve constipation is to identify and address the underlying causes, such as diet and friendly bacteria imbalances.
Constipation can be a frustrating and uncomfortable issue, but there are natural remedies available to help. The seven best natural laxatives, including Senna, cascara sagrada, black psyllium, castor oil, magnesium, potassium, and vegetables and probiotics, work by stimulating smooth muscle in the large intestine and promoting peristalsis.