Fiber for Heart, Cholesterol, and Digestive Health

Written by R. Morgan Griffin

• Why do people take fiber?
• How much fiber should you take?
• Can you get fiber naturally from foods?
• What are the risks of taking fiber?

Fiber is the general name for certain carbohydrates — usually parts of vegetables, plants, and grains — that the body can’t fully digest. While fiber isn’t broken down and absorbed like nutrients, it still plays a key role in good health.

There are two main types of fiber. They are soluble fiber (which dissolves in water) and insoluble fiber (which does not). Combined, they’re called total fiber.

A number of studies have found that a high intake of total fiber, from foods and supplements, lowers the risk of heart disease. High-fiber diets have also been associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.

Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stools. It helps treat constipation and diverticular disease and may benefit people with some types of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Recent research has shown that increased fiber is also linked to increased survival in people with colon cancer.

Soluble fiber seems to lower cholesterol levels. It binds with cholesterol in the intestines and prevents it from being absorbed. Soluble fiber may also be useful in treating diabetes and insulin resistance (prediabetes). It can slow the absorption of carbohydrates, helping to improve blood sugar levels.

Since fiber is filling and has very few calories, high-fiber foods may also help with weight loss.

Fiber that comes from whole foods is called dietary fiber. Fiber that’s sold in supplements, or added to fortified foods, is called functional fiber. The Institute of Medicine has set an adequate intake (AI) for total fiber, which includes all sources. Getting this amount of fiber should be enough to stay healthy. Doctors may recommend higher doses of fiber.

Even in high amounts, fiber appears to be safe. Experts have not discovered an amount of fiber that’s harmful.

Most people in the U.S. take in much less fiber than they should. The best way to get it is from food, like a variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Some good sources of soluble fiber include:

• Oatmeal and oat bran
• Apples, citrus fruits, and strawberries
• Beans, peas, and lentils
• Barley
• Rice bran

And some sources of insoluble fiber are:

• Cereal brans
• Whole grains, like barley
• Whole-wheat breads, wheat cereals, and wheat bran
• Vegetables like carrots, cabbage, beets, and cauliflower

Some foods, like nuts, contain both soluble and insoluble fiber.

• Side effects. Fiber does not have serious side effects. At high levels, it can cause bloating, cramping, gas, and perhaps worsening constipation. Drinking more water — 2 liters a day — may help.
• Interactions. If you take any regular medications, talk to a doctor before you start using a fiber supplement. It may block the absorption of some drugs.
• Risks. Rarely, fiber supplements have caused intestinal blockages. If you have any chronic disease, talk to a doctor before you start using a fiber supplement. The sugar and salt in some supplements, particularly powders, might be risky for people with diabetes or high blood pressure. People with diabetes may want to choose a sugar-free powder or another form of fiber. Blond psyllium is the most common type of fiber supplement on the market.

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Bowel Problems, Conditions & Symptoms

Bowel Category

The first and most important point to remember is that everyone with a bowel problem can be helped and many can be completely cured.

If you have been diagnosed with bowel (faecal) incontinence, IBS, Colitis, Crohns, constipation or other bowel problems you can search the down menus below to find out more information about your specific condition or problem. If you have not been diagnosed by a health professional, the following questions about your symptoms should help you find the information you are looking for.

• Do you find it difficult to have a bowel movement or have a bowel movement less than 3 times a week and have to strain
• Excessively or do not feel completely empty? You may be constipated.
• Do you pass watery or very loose stools more than 3 times in a day? You may have diarrhoea.
• Do you have abdominal pain (in the lower left part of the abdomen) and a change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea or alternating between both), with a mild fever and nausea and vomiting? These are symptoms of diverticular disease.
• If you have diarrhoea, weight loss and abdominal pain, these could be signs of Crohn’s Disease.
• Do you have bloody diarrhoea or diarrhoea containing mucus and the constant urge to go to the toilet even though nothing comes out, with or without abdominal pain? These are symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis.
• Do you leak faeces without being aware of it? This could be bowel or faecal incontinence.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you must see your GP as soon as possible:

• bleeding from your back passage
• blood in your stools (faeces), which can make them look bright red, dark red, or black
• a change in normal bowel habits lasting three weeks or more
• unexplained weight loss and tiredness
• an unexplained pain or lump in your tummy

Once you have a clearer idea of what your problem may be or if you have been diagnosed you can visit our treatment section to see what your options are for managing your symptoms or condition. Information dealing with the more practical and emotional side of coping with bowel problems can be found by visiting the support section.

How to approach your GP about your bowel problems

It is never too late to get help with your bowel problems. If you would like some advice on how to approach your GP regarding your bowel problem you may find our Advice Sheet helpful. It also includes information on tests that your GP may recommend you have done. To download, please click on this link Bowel Advice Sheet.

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Diverticulitis is an inflammation of one or more diverticulum, which are pockets that form in the smooth wall of the intestine. The reason that diverticulitis develops has not been entirely confirmed, but it is…

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A bowel obstruction can be a serious condition, which can occur in the large or small bowel. A small bowel obstruction commonly occurs where loops of intestine can easily get blocked or twisted. A…

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Intestinal constipation: causes, treatment, diet

Every person faced the problem of constipation at least once in his life. If difficulties with bowel movements are observed regularly, then the pathology has acquired a chronic form. In chronic constipation, bowel movements occur less than 3 times a week. At the same time, the chair itself is rare and hard. A constipated person spends more time on the toilet than usual. In the process of defecation, the straining time increases.

Causes of constipation

Intestinal constipation can occur for various reasons.

The first cluster of causes is associated with congenital or acquired pathologies of the large intestine:

• anal fissures
• polyps
• internal and external hemorrhoids
• tumors
• megarectum
• megadolichosigma
• atresia

The second type of causes of constipation include concomitant diseases of the digestive, endocrine and genitourinary systems.

There are also a number of causes of unknown origin, due to which the motility of the rectum and colon is impaired.

Functional constipation can be caused by malnutrition. Eating low in dietary fiber, as well as taking certain medications (diuretics, antidepressants, iron supplements, antacids, anticholinergics) interfere with bowel movements.

A few more causes of chronic constipation:

• wrong way of life
• “knocked down” day and night mode
• lack of physical activity
• low fluid intake (body dehydration)
• “inert” colon syndrome (slow movement of feces)

Special mention should be made of constipation during pregnancy – due to the internal pressure of the fetus, there may be a delay in bowel movement.

Treatment of constipation

People who have problems with bowel movements often ask themselves the question: what to do with constipation? Treatment of constipation, including chronic constipation, is aimed at eliminating the primary pathology that resulted in the problem, as well as changing lifestyle, diet, working conditions, etc.

For the treatment of constipation, a proctologist or gastroenterologist should be consulted. Frequent constipation can be a sign of serious diseases of the stomach and intestines, so we do not recommend self-medication: it would be wiser to make an appointment with a trusted specialist.

Qualified doctors of the Naedine Clinic will conduct a complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract, establish the root cause of the problem and choose the appropriate method of treatment.

Medications are widely used in the treatment of constipation. The type of medication, dose and duration of administration are calculated individually for each patient.

Diet for constipation

Doctor prescribes a special diet for constipation . It is necessary to eat foods rich in fiber daily, for example:

• wheat, oatmeal, pearl barley, buckwheat cereals
• vegetables (carrots, beets, marrows)
• wholemeal bread
• bran
• fruits and berries, including dried fruits (figs, prunes, dates, dried apricots, bananas, non-sour apples)
• vegetable and fruit juices
• fermented milk products (kefir, curdled milk, acidophilus)
• olive, sunflower, linseed, corn oil

Food should be taken 4 times a day. The amount of fluid consumed for constipation should be at least 1.5 liters per day.

The patient must “learn” to go to the toilet to empty his bowels in the morning. With the right treatment regimen, the patient will be able to walk “in a big way” every 1-2 days.

Sign up for a consultation with a proctologist at the Naedine Clinic by phone (8332) 32-7777 or through the online appointment form on our website!

features of the problem and ways to solve it

Contents

• 1 Incomplete bowel movement: how to get rid of the trouble and improve the quality of life?
  • 1.1 Incomplete bowel movement: the problem and its solution
  • 1.2 Causes of incomplete bowel movement
  • 1.3 Main symptoms of incomplete bowel movement
  • 1.4 Consequences and possible complications
  • 1.5 Methods for diagnosing the problem of incomplete bowel movement bowel movements
  • 1.6 How to maintain normal bowel movements ?
  • 1. 7 Diet and diet for incomplete bowel movements
    • 1.7.1 What is incomplete bowel movement?
    • 1.7.2 Which diet helps to solve the problem of incomplete bowel movements?
    • 1.7.3 What is the diet for incomplete bowel movements?
  • 1.8 Folk remedies to solve the problem of incomplete bowel movements
    • 1.8.1 1. A variety of fruits and vegetables
    • 1.8.2 2. Kefir and yogurt
    • 1.8.3 3. Olive oil 900 18
    • 1.8.4 4. Coriander
    • 1.8.5 5. Aloe vera juice
  • 1.9 Modern methods of treatment of incomplete bowel movements
    • 1.9.1 Use of probiotics
    • 1.9.2 Use of drugs to increase intestinal motility
    • 1.9.3 Surgery
  • 1.10 Prognosis for patients with incomplete bowel movements
  • 1.11 Related videos:
  • 1.12 Q&A :
    • • 1.12.0.1 What is incomplete bowel movement?
      • 1.12.0.2 What are the main causes of incomplete bowel movements?
      • 1. 12.0.3 What are the symptoms of incomplete bowel movements?
      • 1.12.0.4 How can incomplete bowel movements be treated?
      • 1.12.0.5 Can incomplete bowel movements be prevented?
      • 1.12.0.6 When should you see a doctor if you suspect incomplete bowel movements?

Incomplete bowel movements can lead to many problems, including indigestion, constipation and discomfort. Find out how to deal with this nuisance and keep your gut healthy.

The intestine is an organ that plays an important role in the elimination of waste from the body. However, some people have trouble emptying it, which can lead to discomfort and even disease.

Incomplete emptying of the bowels is a condition in which not all of the contents of the intestines are excreted with a mimic act, as a result of which the person has a feeling of incomplete emptying and discomfort in the rectum.

This problem can be caused by various reasons such as poor diet, reduced physical activity, stress, etc. Although incomplete bowel movements may be tolerable for some people, in fact, this condition requires attention and solution.

In this article, we will look at the causes of incomplete bowel movements, methods of diagnosis and treatment, as well as provide a number of recommendations for proper bowel care and prevention of this problem.

Incomplete bowel movement: the problem and its solution

Incomplete bowel movement is a condition in which all waste is not removed from the body during a bowel movement. This is a serious condition that can lead to many complications.

Another successful solution to the problem is a wellness massage of the abdominal cavity. For a long time, it has already been used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including incomplete emptying of the intestine. Massage improves the digestion of food and contributes to its more complete removal.

• Increased consumption of water and foods containing vegetable fibers;
• Remedial abdominal massage;

If the problem persists for about a month, you should contact a specialized specialist who will diagnose and prescribe the appropriate therapy. Proper treatment and a rational approach to treatment can help eliminate the problem, avoid its recurrence and significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

Causes of incomplete bowel movements

One of the main causes of incomplete bowel movements is malnutrition. Eating a large amount of fatty, fried, starchy foods, as well as a lack of water and fiber in the diet, can lead to congestion in the intestines and metabolic disorders.

Another cause of may be a sedentary lifestyle or lack of physical activity. Hypodynamia slows down the work of the intestine and contributes to the violation of its functions.

It is not uncommon for incomplete bowel movements to be caused by stress. Emotional overstrain leads to indigestion and impaired motor skills.

Some diseases such as chronic constipation, hemorrhoids, bowel disease, etc., can also cause incomplete bowel movements.

Finally, one of the reasons for incomplete bowel movements may be taking certain medications. Some medications can cause constipation and bowel problems.

Main symptoms of incomplete bowel movement

Feeling of incomplete bowel movement is one of the main symptoms of this disease. A person may feel that there is some feces left in the intestines after going to the toilet. This causes discomfort and inconvenience, and can also lead to intestinal irritation and constipation.

Increased gas production is another typical symptom of incomplete bowel movement. Due to the presence of fecal residues in the intestines, fermentation of food masses occurs, which in turn leads to the formation of gases and bloating. This can lead to abdominal pain and increased symptoms of incomplete emptying.

Frequent visits to the toilet may be a sign of incomplete bowel movements. The person will feel the need to go to the toilet again a short time after the previous emptying, but will be able to excrete a small amount of feces. This can be repeated several times, leading to discomfort and poor quality of life.

1. Bloating

Gas in the intestines can cause an increase in the volume of the abdomen, which is called bloating. This symptom can vary from slight swelling to a significant increase in the volume of the abdomen, which disrupts the work of other organs in the abdominal cavity.

Effects and possible complications

Incomplete bowel movements can lead to a number of serious problems, including constipation, diverticulosis disease, anal fissures and hemorrhoids.

Diverticulosis disease can also be associated with incomplete bowel movements. This is a condition in which sections of the intestine begin to bulge, which can also lead to constipation and diarrhea. If the diverticulum ruptures, it can cause peritonitis, a dangerous inflammatory disease of the abdominal cavity.

Anal fissures are sharp pains that usually occur during defecation. They can be caused by tension in the anus due to incomplete emptying of the bowel.

Finally, hemorrhoids are the expansion and protrusion of blood vessels in the anus, possibly caused by incomplete emptying of the intestine. This can lead to bleeding and additional pain.

Methods for diagnosing problems with incomplete bowel movements

One of the most common ways to diagnose problems with incomplete bowel movements is computed tomography. This is a non-invasive method that allows you to visualize the intestines and determine how well it is cleaned. This method can also help in identifying other problems associated with the intestines.

An X-ray of the bowel is also used. This method can be helpful in identifying nodules and tumors in the intestines, which can lead to problems with bowel cleansing.

• Computed tomography – non-invasive imaging of the bowel
• Endoscopy – looks at the inside of the bowel
• X-ray – helps to identify nodules and tumors in the bowel

In some cases, a biopsy may be required to check tissue for the presence of diseases. However, this method is rarely used in the diagnosis of incomplete bowel movements, as it is more invasive and is associated with a risk of unpleasant consequences.

How to maintain normal bowel movements?

Incomplete bowel movements can lead to various health problems. To avoid this situation, you should follow a few rules:

• Drink enough water. Lack of fluids can lead to constipation and difficult bowel movements. Try to drink at least two liters a day.
• Increase the amount of plant foods in your diet. Vegetables and fruits contain fiber, which helps to improve the peristalsis of the celiac tract.
• Avoid fatty, spicy and salty foods. These foods may irritate the intestines and contribute to constipation.
• Exercise. Moderate physical activity helps improve intestinal motility.
• Watch your diet. Eating regularly helps improve bowel function and avoid problems with bowel movements.

Take care of your health and avoid problems with bowel movements. At the first symptoms, seek medical advice.

Diet and diet for incomplete bowel movements

What is incomplete bowel movement?

Incomplete bowel movement is a condition in which the bowel is not completely cleared during a bowel movement. This problem can have various causes, including a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, improper diet, and other factors.

Which diet helps to solve the problem of incomplete bowel movements?

Diet is an important aspect in the treatment of incomplete bowel movements. It is important to eat food that contains enough fiber to promote more active peristaltic bowel movement. Fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, green vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

In addition, foods that promote constipation should be avoided, such as fatty and fried foods, canned foods, smoked meats, sweets and flour products. It is also important to control the amount of fluids consumed, as lack of water can cause constipation.

What is the diet for incomplete bowel movements?

Diet in case of incomplete emptying of the bowels should be regular and varied. It is recommended to eat frequent and small portions of food to stimulate the intestines to peristalsis. It is important to eat at the same time every day.

In addition, it is recommended to include fermented milk products in the diet, which contain beneficial bacteria for intestinal health. You must also avoid overeating and chew your food thoroughly.

Folk remedies for incomplete bowel movements

1. A variety of fruits and vegetables

In order to improve bowel movement, a variety of fruits and vegetables containing high amounts of fiber should be consumed. People who suffer from problems with incomplete bowel movements should include foods such as apples, pears, plums, mangoes, as well as broccoli, carrots, eggplant, zucchini and cabbage in their diet.

2. Kefir and yogurt

Kefir and yogurt are good sources of beneficial bacteria that improve the gut microbiome. Eating these foods can help reduce gut inflammation, improve digestion, and increase stool mass levels.

3. Olive oil

Olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats that support normal bowel function. It can help relieve constipation as well as increase stool mass. For maximum benefits, olive oil should be consumed raw or added to cooked meals.

4. Coriander

Coriander is a natural remedy for bowel problems. It helps with improving digestion, relieves inflammation and reduces gas formation. For best results, add it to meals, use it as a tea, or take special supplements.

5. Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera juice is an excellent remedy for gentle and natural bowel cleansing. It encourages bowel movements, reduces inflammation, and helps with the elimination of toxins. It is worth remembering that aloe vera is a medicinal plant, so you should consult your doctor before using it.

• A variety of fruits and vegetables should be consumed to improve bowel movements;
• Kefir and yogurt are excellent sources of beneficial bacteria that help improve the gut microbiome;
• Olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats that promote normal bowel function;
• Coriander helps with digestion, reduces inflammation and reduces gas;
• Aloe vera juice helps with gentle and natural colon cleansing, reducing inflammation and eliminating toxins.

Modern treatments for incomplete bowel movements

Use of probiotics

One of the treatments for incomplete bowel movements is the use of probiotics. Natural cultures of microorganisms help to improve digestion and increase the level of immunity.

Probiotic cultures can be obtained from fermented, pickled or fermented milk products, as well as using special medications.

Use of drugs to increase intestinal motility

To increase intestinal motility, special preparations are used that improve the contraction of the intestinal muscles.

These preparations may contain agents that increase peristalsis, as well as preparations that normalize the acidity and composition of the intestinal microflora.

Surgery

If conservative treatments for incomplete bowel movements fail, surgery may be required.

Surgery may involve removing obstructions in the bowel or correcting deformities that prevent complete emptying.

Prognosis for patients with incomplete bowel movements

Incomplete bowel movement is a serious problem that can lead to various complications. The prognosis for patients depends on many factors: the degree of the disease, the age of the patient, the presence of other diseases.

However, if the disease is accompanied by other diseases, such as hemorrhoids or proctitis, the prognosis may be worse. In such cases, complex treatment is necessary, aimed at eliminating all causes of the disease.

In any case, it is important to see a doctor at the first sign of incomplete bowel movements. The sooner you start treatment, the better your prognosis will be for your health.

• The main factors influencing the prognosis of the development of the disease:
• The degree of the disease;
• Age of the patient;
• Presence of other diseases;
• Correct setting of nutrition and daily routine;
• Timely treatment and diagnosis.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is incomplete bowel movement?

Incomplete bowel movement is a condition where after a bowel movement there is a feeling of an incomplete act and some stool remains in the rectum or sigmoid colon.

What are the main causes of incomplete bowel movements?

The main causes of incomplete bowel movements may be associated with common bowel diseases, such as chronic constipation, dysbacteriosis, hemorrhoids or proctitis. Also, this condition can be caused by psychological factors, such as stress or depression, as well as infectious diseases of the intestine.

What are the symptoms of incomplete bowel movements?

The main symptoms of incomplete bowel movement are a feeling of incomplete defecation, frequent visits to the toilet, pain during defecation, and the presence of traces of feces on paper after the toilet.

How can incomplete bowel movements be treated?

Treatment for incomplete bowel movements depends on the cause. To eliminate incomplete emptying, it may be necessary to change the diet, introduce special exercises for the pelvic muscles, take medications to improve intestinal motility, or undergo physical therapy.

Can incomplete bowel movements be prevented?

Incomplete bowel movements can be prevented by following healthy habits and proper nutrition, including drinking enough water and fiber, and avoiding foods that cause constipation.

When should you see a doctor if you suspect incomplete bowel movements?

If you experience the described symptoms of incomplete bowel movements, you should see your doctor for a thorough examination and diagnosis of the cause of the problem.