[Tracie28574]

Hello and thanks for reading. I've seen this question posted a lot but I just wanted to see what you guys recommend. I've been on Phen just over a month and have had some constipation. I've taken a laxative a few times for some relief. Last Friday I started The Fat Smash Diet and have been eating nothing but veggies, oatmeal, fruits and egg beaters. I've been drinking tons of water and no more than 2 cups of skim milk a day. I haven't been able to go since last Thursday :-( I just don't know what to do since I know I'm getting tons of fiber. I eat 4-5 meals a day. Oatmeal in the morning then fruits and veggies throughout the day and egg beaters and veggies at dinner. Can anyone offer any advice on what I can do or take to help ? Thanks so much for anything you can suggest.

Tracie:confused:

[susanpesek]

Hi, Tracie! I "Googled" constipation relief and read umpteen ways to remedy constipation. After all the reading I concluded having several prunes( 4-5), drinking at least 100 ounces of water a day, getting enough exercise and a varied, healthy diet should do the trick.
I would be wary of using a laxative because I have heard your bowels can easily become dependent on them.:confused:
Some things I have used over the years when my children were growing up, just FYI:

1. Castor oil-tastes like I imagine motor oil would taste but it works. There will be cramping.
Beware: If you ever try it once you will never try it again because of the taste.:eek:

2. A pre-mixed water suppository in a plastic dispenser( I have forgotten the name but think it is called a Fleet enema)can be purchased for under $2 in the pharmacy. After you are seated you add warm water into colon and hold as long as you are able, up to a minute or two. The stool is naturally softened.

3. Generic Colase can be purchased for under $3 for 100 geltabs. Take 2 in am and 2 in pm until situation resolves. There is no cramping. If your meds are causing the constipation, you might stay on these once or twice a day for the length of the medicine prescription.

If you are still having problems after a couple days, phone your doctor's nurse. There shouldn't be a cost and they can suggest something for you. I hope you are more comfortable soon!

[mya]

When chronic constipation becomes a problem it is good to look at your activity level and how much you move, walk, and how much time is spent sitting down, especially if you have a desk job. Walking and exercise stimulates the motility of your intestines which can greatly improve regularity along with drinking plenty of fluids. As a nurse I have great success with my pts who are constipated after surgery (also pain medication is extremely constipating) to have them drink warm liquids and taking them down the hallway to walk. If you have extreme constipation and have not gone for a few days you could try some MOM but I do not think it wise to use this as a daily fix it but rather a one time dose to assist in removing the blockage and then begin a good daily routine that works for you. Some people have a habit of not going to the bathroom because they are to busy at work,home etc etc.. Holding it until you make time can also add to constipation. And here is a extra little comment about bowel movements, a very large percentage of people that suffer from headaches are actually caused by constipation or diarrhea. Just a little tidbit. Anyway I don't know if any of these suggestions will benefit you but possibly someone else will read this and find it helpful. Good Luck! LOL Mya

[countrygirl]

Thank you Mya! This was helpful to me. As a mother of four girls, I fall into the category of being too busy to go when I need to which does lead to futher problems. I must remember that I also need to take care of myself too! Thanks for your advice! Have a great day!

Countrygirl

[tatiana40]

Mya and Susan, your posts are very helpful and make a lot of sense. Thanks!