If you don’t know what a bidet is, pronounced “bi-day,” it is a shallow toilet that sprays water into your butt after a poo. It’s not embarrassing to say that everybody poops, but it is not so hygienic to know that not everyone has a successful wipe. Constant wiping can not only be frustrating, but it can also cause intense irritation around the anus. If you feel that you wipe too much, it may be time to forego the toilet paper and embrace the bidet. 

Many countries in Europe, Asia, and South America regularly use the bidet in some way, shape, or form. Some countries have hose attachments while other countries, like Japan, have costly toilet/bidet combos that not only wash, but also dry your bum. You have probably seen that more and more people in the United States have grown fond of the fancy Japanese toilet. As true as this may be, this isn’t the most affordable option and it isn’t as popular in the U.S.

Some experts believe that, even though we are our own nation, the U.S. adopted many British customs and philosophies. In the 18th and 19th centuries, for example, the British associated bidets with brothels, so they were viewed as “dirty.” Fans of the bidet, or bidet attachments, claim that their backsides are cleaner, fresher, and healthier after regular use. Others find bidets to be much more comfortable than traditional toilet paper. Would you rather have fresh water clean your anus, or smear it with dry paper until it is somewhat clean?

Are Bidets Sanitary?

Health experts agree that bidets are more sanitary than traditional bottom-cleaning methods. A bidet can provide a more hygienic experience compared to toilet paper. Water beats a few squares of dry TP in removing trace amounts of fecal matter after you poop. Wiping with toilet paper also increases the risk of getting fecal matter on the hands and nails. That is why you always have to wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom, even when using a bidet. 

Poop Talk Is Not Taboo

Toilet paper is not going anywhere, but more U.S. citizens continue to embrace the bidet. The conversation about poop is changing, and it isn’t as taboo as it was in previous years. There are so many poop-related products nowadays, especially the Squatty Potty, PooPourri, and Hello Tushy bidet attachments. So many companies manufacture bidet attachments, some of which are fancier than others, and the reviews support them. Once you try one out, it’s hard to use regular TP again!

Bidets Keep Your Hands Cleaner

Bidets not only help with anal and genital hygiene, but also hand hygiene. A 2005 study monitored 22 nursing home residents who had bidet toilets installed. The results indicated that half of the residents and staff reported a positive effect on toileting with residents’ urine bacteria content. Washing your butt with water, as opposed to wiping with toilet paper, helps remove more fecal matter, which reduces the risk of spreading bacteria. After using a bidet, dab your anus with toilet paper to dry the area and then thoroughly wash your hands. 

Bidets Are Environmentally Friendly

It’s estimated that Americans use about 36.5 billion rolls of toilet paper every year. In 2014, Americans spent $9.6 billion on toilet paper! That is a lot of money for a lot of dead trees, when bidets are a perfectly available and more eco-friendly option. You save a lot of water every year when you use a bidet because it takes about 37 gallons of water to make one roll of toilet paper. Producing one roll of toilet paper also requires 1.5 pounds of wood. In contrast, using a bidet consumes about one pint of water.

Bidets Save You Money

Is there an initial investment for a bidet? Absolutely, but think of it as a long-term investment that saves you money over time. If you get a bidet attachment, it is a much more affordable investment, and you just hook it up to your existing toilet. Over time, a bidet can help you avoid spending hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on toilet paper every year. Plus, you can rest easy if people panic about not having enough toilet paper if a future pandemic hits. 

Bidets May Help Address Hemorrhoids

If you bleed when you wipe, a bed with some warm water spray may be the alternative you need. A study from 2009 compared warm water sprays to sit baths for people who had surgery near the anus. Researchers didn’t note any difference in wound healing, but those who were in the water spray group said that the spray was way more convenient and satisfying. 

Regarding hemorrhoids, millions of Americans either have them or are at risk for developing them, and the risk only increases with age. Unfortunately, the research behind bidet usage for hemorrhoid relief is preliminary, but what exists is positive. A small study from 2011 monitored healthy individuals who used electronic bidets. The results indicated that low-to-medium warm water pressure relieved pressure on the anus. Researchers explained that warm water may also promote blood circulation in the skin around the anus.

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Do you remember the famous book, Everyone Poops? It teaches children that all creatures in the animal world, including humans, deal with the products of digestion. Most people don’t want to discuss this topic, or the topic of digestive problems. This is interesting when you consider that digestive disease continues to rise among American adults. In fact, a 2021 report found that 62 million Americans are diagnosed with a digestive disorder each year. 

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract consists of the mouth, stomach, and intestines. Along with the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, these organs work in unison to absorb nutrients and expel waste. If these natural processes are disturbed, it’s possible to experience a range of symptoms. Many symptoms pass and pose little risk to your health, but common digestive issues can often indicate several common digestive disorders. Read on to learn about the most common digestive disorders. If you suspect that you have one of these problems, consult with your doctor to take action. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). It is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors, including abnormalities in the muscles of the intestine, changes in the balance of bacteria in the gut, and sensitivity to certain foods. There is a growing body of research on IBS, including studies on its causes, risk factors, and treatment options. Some potential treatment options for IBS include dietary changes, medications, and stress management techniques. If you are experiencing symptoms of IBS, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the digestive tract. The condition is characterized by inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, which can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Health experts are still unsure of the exact cause of Crohn’s disease, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. A growing body of research on Crohn’s disease includes studies on its causes, risk factors, and treatment options. Some people choose conventional treatment options, while others prefer to use natural remedies to manage symptoms. Should you think you have Crohn’s disease, speak with your healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can affect digestion in several ways. One of the primary symptoms of hemorrhoids is painless bleeding during bowel movements. In rare cases, heavy or prolonged bleeding can lead to anemia. Hemorrhoids can also cause itching, swelling, and irritation around the anus, which can be uncomfortable and interfere with the normal process of defecation. In some cases, the presence of hemorrhoids can make it difficult to have a bowel movement, leading to constipation. Lastly, it’s possible that hemorrhoids may be associated with other digestive disorders like IBD.

Diverticulitis 

There are small bulging pouches that can form in the lining of the digestive system, most often in the colon or large intestine, and these are called diverticula. The formation of these sacs is referred to as diverticulosis, but having diverticula does not indicate diverticulitis. If the diverticula become inflamed, then this is considered diverticulitis. People with diverticulitis will most commonly experience severe abdominal pain or a change in bowel habits. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, irregular bowel movements, fever, vomiting, or constipation. Similar to other digestive disorders, there is no singular or specific cause; however, the formation of diverticula can be attributed to a low-fiber diet, which can lead to constipation. This increased pressure in the colon may lead to the development of diverticula. 

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus. It can sometimes get to the point when stomach acid rises into the throat and disturbs the tissues. The primary reason for this occurrence is if the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) isn’t functioning properly. Rapid weight gain, medication, lifestyle, diet, and pregnancy (occasionally) can also lead to the development of GERD. There are many natural remedies to help minimize symptoms, and you can learn about them by clicking here.  

Ulcerative Colitis 

Ulcerative colitis is a common IBD that causes ulcers or long-lasting inflammation in the digestive tract. This condition affects the inner lining to the rectum and large intestine and is closely related to Crohn’s Disease. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition and while there isn’t a known cure, there are several options to help reduce symptoms and achieve long-term remission. Maintaining a healthy diet is often the first order of business to help reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis. It is also wise to avoid sugar, exercise regularly to reduce inflammation, and consider supplementing with herbs like slippery elm, as it may help calm inflamed bowels. 

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What do you know about fiber? Well, if you’ve read any health article within the past couple years, you know that fiber helps to maintain optimal gut health. Fiber has the ability to help you feel full and stay regular, which is the information most people absorb. Did you know that fiber comes in two different forms? This article aims to explain the difference and benefits of both soluble and insoluble fiber. 

What Is Fiber?

Fiber is a term that refers to every component of plant-based foods that cannot be digested or absorbed. Fiber is a complex carbohydrate that doesn’t elevate blood sugar levels, unlike breads, sugars, and other simple carbohydrates. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are the most predominant sources of dietary fiber. It’s an essential nutrient that you must consume via diet. As a general recommendation, women should consume 25 grams of fiber per day, while men should consume 38 grams of fiber per day. The sad reality is that most American adults only consume 16 grams of fiber per day. 

Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber

For the most part, fiber stays intact for the majority of its journey through the body. This is unique because the body breaks down food into nutrients it can use, but it can’t digest or absorb fiber. This is a good thing, believe it or not. Soluble fiber, which includes plant pectin and gums, dissolves in water and gastrointestinal fluids upon entering the stomach. The body converts it into a gel-like substance that bacteria in the large intestine digest. Soluble fiber feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping to optimize gut health.

Insoluble fiber, which includes plant hemicellulose and cellulose, does not dissolve water or gastrointestinal fluids. In fact, it passes through the digestive tract without changing much because the body doesn’t digest it. Because of this, insoluble fiber is not a source of calories. Insoluble fiber absorbs the body’s fluids and sticks to other materials to form stool. By helping the body form softer, bulkier stools, insoluble fiber promotes regular bowel movements.

Benefits Of Soluble Fiber

Soluble fiber works to control how and when the body absorbs certain nutrients like carbohydrates. This may help prevent large amounts of glucose from entering the bloodstream that lead to blood sugar spikes. Regulating blood sugar can not only keep hunger in check, but also prevent mood swings. Soluble fiber may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering cholesterol levels and stabilizing blood sugar. Additionally, decreasing fat absorption may improve circulation and optimize heart health.

By lowering fat absorption, soluble fiber may assist with weight management. The thick gel-like substance that the body makes from soluble fiber actually blocks fats that the body would absorb and digest. Lastly, and perhaps most important of all, soluble fiber helps to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. As these fermentable fibers enter the colon, bacteria feed on them to create short-chain fatty acids, which help boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and increase energy levels. 

Great Sources Of Soluble Fiber

• Beans
• Apples
• Oats
• Peas
• Carrots
• Barley
• Citrus fruits
• Turnips
• Flaxseeds
• Brussels sprouts

Benefits Of Insoluble Fiber

Insoluble fiber passes through the digestive tract intact because it doesn’t dissolve in water. It tends to have more of a laxative effect, pulling water into stool so that the body has an easier time eliminating. This is beneficial for anyone who suffers from constipation or poor digestive health. That being said, insoluble fiber is necessary for encouraging regular bowel movements. By preventing constipation and blockages, insoluble fiber works to lower the risk of diverticular disease. Preventing small folds and hemorrhoids in the colon encourages a healthier colon, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. 

Great Sources Of Insoluble Fiber

• Wheat bran
• Cauliflower
• Berries
• Potatoes
• Avocados
• Nuts
• Carrots
• Beans
• Green beans
• Whole wheat flour
• Brown rice
• Chia seeds
• Dark leafy greens

Most plants tend to have both forms of fiber, making it more beneficial to increase your consumption of plant-based foods. Enjoy a bowl of oatmeal, smoothie, salad, lentil soup, or roasted vegetables, to increase your fiber intake. Consuming both types of fiber not only beneficial for improving digestive health, but also reducing the risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and certain types of cancer.

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Herbal H Formula is an herbal supplement intended to soothe and nourish the colon, as well as blood vessels and nerves in the colon.

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Gut health is one of the most popular topics in the health world at the moment. It’s safe to say that most of the American population needs to increase alkalinity and fix their gut, but where do you start? How do you increase beneficial gut bacteria? 

While it’s always recommended to make diet and lifestyle changes, there are other ways to promote healthy gut flora and improve digestion. A healthy digestive system can improve immune function, cognitive function, and your ability to have regular bowel movements. Implement the following strategies into your life to benefit your digestive system. 

Consume Soluble And Insoluble Fiber

Nutritionists or doctors always suggest that people include more fiber in their diet. A high-fiber diet does help to keep things moving through the digestive tract. This can help ward off digestive complications like constipation, hemorrhoids, or diverticulitis. The fiber recommendation is a little too general, though. You need to consume both soluble and insoluble fiber. The former draws in water to prevent watery stools, while the latter isn’t digested by the body and adds bulk to stools. Great sources of soluble fiber are oat bran, nuts, legumes, and seeds, and great sources of insoluble fiber are wheat bran, whole grains, and vegetables. 

Reduce Your Gluten Intake

Gluten didn’t used to be an issue, but wheat wasn’t hybridized or grown with genetically modified organisms a couple generations ago either. Nowadays, wheat has completely different proteins, which many people cannot tolerate. A lot of people develop inflamed or weakened gut lining after consuming gluten. There are many gluten-free alternatives, so try experimenting with them in your diet. 

Choose Probiotics

Probiotics are present in the digestive tract and they work to keep the body healthy, enhancing nutrient absorption and immune function. Probiotics may even help to break down lactose and remedy symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). These beneficial bacteria can become overwhelmed by unhealthy foods and lifestyle choices, leading to the development of excess bad bacteria in the gut. Start consuming probiotics in the form of fermented vegetables, kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, or miso on a daily basis. You also need to consume prebiotics to feed the probiotics. Great prebiotic foods include bananas, onions, legumes, oats, fruits, and a variety of whole grains. 

Hydrate With Water

The more water you drink, the healthier your digestive system will be. To the recommendation above, water helps maintain the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. It also works to clean out any built-up waste in the digestive tract. The ideal recommendation for optimal hydration is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day. If you weight 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should drink 75 ounces of water per day.

Get More Sleep

This seems like an odd tip in regards to improving gut health, but the constant communication between the gut and the brain can affect your sleep. If your microbiome (the microorganisms that live in your digestive system) is out of balance, it cannot produce dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, all of which are neurotransmitters that regulate mood and sleep. When your gut isn’t healthy, your sleep can suffer. It’s difficult to get the amount of sleep we need, but it is a health priority!

Manage Stress

When you harbor a lot of stress, you can experience a variety of physical and emotional responses. From sleep troubles to more serious digestive disorders, stress can do a lot of damage to the body. Studies have shown that high cortisol levels can increase your risk of gut-related conditions, including IBS, GERD, and Crohn’s disease. There are numerous ways to reduces stress, but we recommend meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, frequent massages, breathing exercises, or walking in nature. 

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The color of stool can vary, although it most commonly falls in the brown color spectrum. Whether you know it or not, the foods you eat can affect the color of your stools, the rate of digestion, and the frequency of your bowel movements. Seldom will you look at your stool to find that the color indicates a potentially serious condition, but it can happen.

Note: While we are providing the possible explanations of stool colors in this article, you should consult your medical professional if you are concerned about the color of your stools.

The problem with most people is that they don’t take the time to look (or even glance) at their stools. Your poo can tell you a lot about your health, people! The color can indicate nutritional deficiencies and the consistency may inform you that a dietary intervention must be made.

Consistency

Stool should not be difficult to pass; rather, it should be relatively soft and easy to eliminate. If you are struggling to pass stool and the stool that is passed is hard and dry, you are most likely constipated. You may need to cleanse the body if constipation lasts longer than two weeks. You can also visit your medical professional for advice. The reason you don’t want to let constipation go unaddressed is because the mucus and fluid from stool, which becomes lodged in the colon, can leak into the blood or organs. You do not want this to happen.

Watery or loose stools, on the other hand, indicate diarrhea. If diarrhea increases in frequency and is accompanied by fever or severe abdominal pain, you may need to contact your health care professional. For more information about what the color means, look at the chart below.

There are other reasons that stools may have a color change. Eating a lot of carrots and sweet potatoes can result in a slightly orange stool, for instance. If you are ever worried about the color, consistency, or frequency of stools, contact your medical professional for help or advice.

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Often called piles, hemorrhoids are inflamed or swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. Whether they are induced by straining during bowel movements or by increased pressure during pregnancy, roughly half of adults may experience hemorrhoids by age 50. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external, with external hemorrhoids being the most common and troublesome. Use the following herbal remedies to naturally get rid of hemorrhoids without having negative side effects.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a superstar in the world of home remedies, and it is a popular natural treatment to help reduce hemorrhoids. Soak a cotton ball in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and apply it directly to the hemorrhoids, taping it on overnight. Repeat this process until the inflammation dies down.

Squat, Don’t Sit

Squatting as opposed to sitting can help you properly and fully eliminate your bowels. When you sit down to poop, your knees are at a 90-degree angle to your abdomen. That can pinch your anal canal and prevent full bowel elimination, which means you strain harder to eliminate bowels. Squatting straightens the rectum, allowing easy passage of stool. You may want to look into a Squatty Potty to allow gravity to do most of the work, which helps to avoid colon build up. You don’t want to strain to eliminate because that can cause hemorrhoids or pelvic issues.

Friendly Fiber

If you have hemorrhoids, it may be beneficial to add more fiber to your diet. This can relieve constipation and put an end to straining or built-up pressure in the rectum and colon. You can add fiber to your diet by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts & seeds, and whole grains. It is best to avoid processed foods, meat, dairy products, sugars, and fried foods because these can be rough on the digestive system, lead to colon build-up, and even constipation. Flax is a great source of fiber, and omega-3s can help get things moving as well.

Soak In A Bath

To help decrease pain or irritation, you can soak in a warm bath every day for at least 10 minutes. You can also add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the bath for additional remedying properties. To help reduce pain and swelling of external hemorrhoids, you can sit on a hot water bottle or ice pack.

Coconut Oil & Aloe Vera

If the itching or burning is intense around the anus, apply coconut oil or aloe vera to the external hemorrhoids because they both have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. These can help decrease swelling, much like apple cider vinegar, as well as soothe itching.

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Since we aren’t at the dinner table, let’s talk about poop. Bowel movements aren’t widely discussed, but they are an inevitable part of life. Your bowels can actually say a lot about you and inform you about your gastrointestinal health. Without further or doo (get it?), here’s the inside scoop about poop.

What’s In Your Poop?

Pooping is an essential part of life, and it’s your body’s natural way of eliminating waste. This is why your poo can give you a clue as to goings on inside your body. The texture, shape, color, or even smell of your poop can reveal dietary deficiencies, dehydration, or illnesses. Your bowels are comprised of 75% water, and the rest is a stinky combination of fiber, dead and live bacteria, undigested food, cells, and mucus. You often hear the phrase, “Your shit stinks.” Well, this is due to sulphur-containing chemicals, which are known to break down proteins. If you cut down the amount of protein in your diet and regularly exercise, then there may be less waste protein to produce that foul odor. Sometimes the smell can be severely foul for multiple reasons, including medications, food that was stuck in the colon for too long, or an infection.

Frequency

If someone told you that it was normal to poop a few times a week, that person was lying to you. Going more than three days without emptying the tank can be a sign of constipation, which can be caused by many factors like dehydration, dietary habits, lack of fiber, or other medical conditions. It’s normal of the average person to empty his/her bowels once a day. Some people poop 1-3 times a day, which is still normal, while others just have it down to a science and poop at the same time every single day. If your poop is watery and you are excreting more than three times a day, you enter into the world of diarrhea, which is something you need to address.

Remember, it is normal for a person with a healthy diet to have one bowel movement a day. If you are experiencing constipation, one bowel movement every three days, there are several things you can do to empty the tank:

• Remove gluten (barley, wheat, rye, spelt, and other grains) from your diet
• Try to maintain a whole foods diet. Make sure you consume a lot of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables that provide fiber. It is ideal for your fiber to come from vegetables instead of grains; you can also get fiber from flax seeds.
• Say goodbye to artificial sweeteners, chemical additives, MSG, processed foods, and excess sugar to promote better digestive function.
• Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.

Form

Some people tend to flush and go without taking the time to glance at their feces. It’s not a popular topic of conversation, but the form can indicate if we are healthy or not. If your poop is hard, in pieces, and you have to strain to pass it, then you are likely constipated.

You want to be at #3, #4, and #5 on the chart. A nice tubular shape is optimal, and it should come out with ease. If your stool is loose then you can add fibrous foods to help firm it up. If you are on the opposite end of the spectrum and it is too hard, you may need some probiotics, raw nuts and seeds, or pears to loosen up your bowels and promote proper digestion.

Color Matters

If you’re the type that looks at your stool, you may notice that it can vary in color. The ideal color is a medium or dark brown. Black poop can indicate that there is bleeding in the upper G.I. tract. It could also mean that there is an ulcer in the stomach, or an early indication of colon cancer. Here’s a general rule of thumb: see a medical professional if you see blood in your toilet. Let it be known that a small amount of blood may be caused by pushing too hard, which can cause a small tear around the anus or even hemorrhoids.

Poop can be a seaweed green for two reasons: Your diet may consist of lots of leafy green vegetables (which is great!), or food may be passing too quickly through your digestive system (not so great). Bile can have a green tinge, and if it is in your stool, then body didn’t have time to properly digest it. Your poop can also look grayish if you are on certain medications. It can also be light in color, which may suggest a liver problem. If the liver isn’t producing enough bile, then your body isn’t properly detoxifying. To remedy this, you can incorporate dandelions and beets into your diet to help detox the liver.

Squat, Don’t Sit

Squatting as opposed to sitting can help you properly and fully eliminate your bowels. Why squat? When you sit down to poop, your knees are at a 90-degree angle to your abdomen. That can pinch your anal canal and prevent full bowel elimination. Squatting straightens the rectum, allowing easy passage of stool. You may want to look into a Squatty Potty to allow gravity to do most of the work, which helps to avoid colon build up. You don’t want to strain to eliminate because that can cause hemorrhoids or pelvic issues.

Poop is your friend. Embrace the ability to naturally release your bowels because it is a healthy part of life. A great way to effectively eliminate your bowels is through cleansing or participating in a colonic. It’s great to eliminate, so make sure you regularly do the doo and have regular poos. Remember, 80-90% of all diseases start in the colon!

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If there is one health problem all Americans have in common, it would undoubtedly have to be constipation. Yes, constipation!

More than 90% of Americans are constipated. Constipation plays a major role in obesity, which is an American epidemic these days.

Causes and Risk Factors

Constipation occurs when the stools are crowded together in the colon.

Medically speaking, constipation is defined as: Difficulty in passing stools or an incomplete or infrequent passage of hard stools. There are many causes, both organic and functional. Among the organic causes are intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, and tumors. Functional impairment of the colon may occur in elderly or bedridden patients (persons) who fail to respond to the urge to defecate.

Now what causes the stools to become hard or hardened? Answer: diet in general and the Standard American Diet in particular, which contains excessive meat, dairy products, and starches. Cooking food can also contribute to constipation, as it destroys enzymes in fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts and grains.

It is the enzymatic activity of living (raw) foods that causes peristalsis. Peristalsis is the wavelike muscular contractions of the alimentary canal or other tubular structures by which contents are forced onward toward the opening (rectum).

Symptoms

Constipation is characterized by hard dry stools, straining at stool, painful defecation, abdominal distention, and hemorrhoids. And obviously enough, a protruding pot belly physically denotes constipation.

If you eat three meals a day and are not defecating three times a day you’re constipated! If you are sitting on the toilet for many minutes and straining while defecating and after defecating you only see a pea or pebble sized stool at the bottom of the toilet, you’re constipated.

Healing Options

Professional colonics and/or at-home enemas can also help to eradicate constipation.

Constipation can be reversed or eradicated by changing or modifying your diet by cutting out or cutting back on meats, dairy products and cooked starches and eating more raw fruits and vegetables and drinking more water. Movement (physical exercise) can also help.

Dietary Intervention

Enzymes are destroyed at temperatures above 118. A raw diet can help alleviate constipation.

The opposite of cooked food is raw food. Actually, raw foods too are cooked, but they are cooked by solar heat, not synthetic heat (stoves, microwave ovens, electric ovens, etc.).

Raw foods are solarized foods and therefore will transmit energy to your body, unlike cooked food, which makes you tired and fatigued and weighs you down.

Raw fruits and vegetables provide natural fiber. Fiber is great for colon health and counteracting constipation because fiber bulks up in the colon and becomes mucilaginous and sweeps the walls of the colon.

Hydration plays a major role in the bowel management. Water is a natural stool softener and helps to soften the stools and also to keep the colon lubricated. Because water is electrical, it also stimulates peristalsis just like raw fruits and vegetables. Also, water and enzymes work together! A lot of Americans don’t like drinking water. They unwisely drink more soda pop, beer, milk and artificially flavored beverages than water, which their body is dependent upon for optimal health.

Prune juice and plum juice are ideal in battling constipation. When the colon is constipated, it’s the equivalent of a clogging/stoppage in your sink. When your sink is clogged, you call a plumber. A plumber unclogs a drain just like plum juice unclogs your colon. In the word plumber we find the word plum. Here is wisdom!

Herbs are one of the most effective ways to treat constipation.

Cathartic and laxative herbs will greatly help to eradicate constipation. Herbs such as Senna (leaves/pods), Cascara Sagrada, Aloe Vera resin, Rhubarb, Mandrake, Bilwa, Glucomannan, Bibitaki, Buckthorn, and Jalap Root will stimulate and enhance peristalsis. Senna is a very powerful African herb that will greatly unclog the colon and reverse constipation. In fact, pharmaceutical-grade Ex Lax laxative now contains Senna.

Along with the herbs supra, fiber and mucilaginous herbs such as Psyllium Husks, Pamita, Fennel, Guar Gum, Acacia Gum, Oats, Irish Moss, Slippery Elm bark, and Kelp will help to eradicate constipation by constantly bulking up and sweeping the walls of the colon. Irish Moss is a very invaluable herb (sea weed, ocean herb) as it aids in the formation of stools. And unlike pharmaceutical-grade laxatives, you can’t become addicted to using an herb as a laxative or for laxative purposes.

Dherbs does not recommend taking a lot of Psyllium Husk by itself because many people have become clogged due to taking too much of it.

Constipation is 100% reversible/healable and there is a plethora of natural remedies and tools to assist you in overcoming the American epidemic of constipation.

Dherbs Solutions

DHERBS offers some wonderful and powerful natural stool softener formulas for the colon that will remedy or prevent constipation:

• Bowel Motion
• Colon & Digestive Tract
• Intestinal Cleanser

Thank you for reading.

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An enema is a procedure in which a solution is introduced into the rectum for cleansing or therapeutic purposes. Enemas were once very common but as people began to move away from the old ways in order to live the fast paced life in pursuit of easy living and luxury, the procedure got tossed to the side and our entire alimentary canal system (or digestive tract), especially the alimentary members ‘colon’ and ‘rectum’, became clogged and a plethora of diseases resulted, diseases such as constipation, hemorrhoids, anal fistula, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, rectal cancer, and colon cancer.

A ‘high in meat, dairy, refined grains and starches’ diet has greatly sabotaged health in general, colon health in particular. Chances are, if the colon is impaired, so is the rectum.

To properly fix or repair the colon, the proper procedure would be a colonic. Please read our article “Colonics” to learn more about this procedure if you’re interested in it. However, the proper and best procedure to repair the rectum would be a good old fashion enema. Enemas release water or another solution into the rectum which helps cleanse the rectum by aiding (and stimulating) the rectum in expelling old fecal waste matter and residue. The rectum pretty much holds waste that is ready for elimination. However, many times, the waste will remain in the rectum for days and in some cases (with certain people), for weeks!

Preparing For and Performing the Enema

The enema is assembled; if reusable equipment is to be use, an 18-to-20 French gauge catheter (or a speculum), a 2-to3 foot length of tubing, an enema bag, the solution, a clamp, and a thermometer are collected and brought to the place where the enema will be performed, preferably the bathroom.

It is not hygienic to perform an enema in the kitchen or bedroom.

If a disposable enema set is to be used, no other equipment is necessary. The catheter or speculum (tip) is lubricated, preferably with botanical oil such as olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil, grape seed oil, castor oil, or jojoba oil. Don’t use a synthetic lubricant, especially one that contains or is made from petroleum, i.e. Vaseline, K-Y-Jelly, or mineral oil. Always keep things natural as possible!

The person is positioned in the left lateral knee-chest or dorsal position, or, as some prefer, bent over with head-to-floor and posterior up.

The lubricated speculum or catheter is then gently inserted into the opening of the rectum. Remember to slide and ease in gently the speculum tip or catheter tip. The tip should be inserted 7.5 to 10 cm into the rectum.

NOTE: You can also lubricate the anus too before injecting the lubricated tip of the speculum or catheter.

Next, you slowly open the clamp (usually by a pressing and releasing action, which you may have to get a feel for with your hands behind you feeling their way with the enema’s clamp).

The enema solution is allowed to flow from a height of 45 cm above the level of the hips. Generally, the higher the enema bag, the better the ability of the water to flow through the hose and into your rectum.

You can control the flow of water into the rectum by manipulating the clamp. The clamp will usually have about 3-5 ridges that allow you to control the flow and amount of water that comes into your rectum.

With a disposable enema, the container is squeezed slowly to force the fluid into the rectum.

The tip (of the speculum or catheter) is gently withdrawn when all the solution has been administered.

The enema solution is held in for a prescribed period of time, after which it is expelled as you sit on the toilet (which is why the bathroom is the best place to perform your enema).

After injecting the enema solution (usually herbal solution) into the rectum, lie on your left side for 3-5 minutes and massage the left lower part of your stomach. Then, turn on your back and massage the top lower part of your stomach for 3-5 minutes. After this, lie on your right side for 3-5 minutes and massage the lower right side of your stomach.

NOTE: Place a few towels on the floor where you will lie on your sides and back during your enema. You should be comfortable lying down while massaging your lower stomach.

If you are new to enemas, you may want to attempt holding the solution in for about a good minute and then expel on the toilet. Don’t try and hold it in for 3 to 5 minutes. Work your way up to 5 minutes. Start at 1 minute, then 2 minutes, and then 3 minutes and so on.

Hold the enema solution in for as long as you can before expelling on the toilet. Sit on the toilet for a few minutes and take your thumb (alternating with both hands) and press into your stomach to hit certain reflex meridians to cause enema solution to be released.

Types of Solutions

The original enema solution is plain old natural WATER! Use distilled water or alkaline water for your enema. Never use tap water because it’s too chemically polluted!

You can mix different types of enemas together in the bag: hydrogen peroxide, liquid chlorophyll, sea salt, and bentonite clay. ALWAYS use the measurements given above when mixing all these agents together. The coffee enema should always be pure coffee and nothing else!

SEA SALT

You can add sea salt to your enema water. Pour the water into a big bowl or pot and then add the sea salt (4-8 ounces will suffice). Let the solution sit over night. The salt should dissolve into the water. Then right before performing your enema, pour the salt water into your enema bag.

NOTE: Refrain from pouring sea salt directly into your enema bag before performing the enema. The salt may clog the tube and prevent the clamp from allowing water in to the rectum. Sea salt takes time to dissolve!

Sea salt is available from health food stores. All kinds of sea salt can be used for the enema, i.e. Celtic sea salt, Himalayan sea salt, etc. Coarse or granule sea salt is best, but whichever sea salt type you use must be dissolved in water overnight.

CHLOROPHYLL

Liquid chlorophyll is a great addition to enema water. It helps to alkalize the rectum and also deodorize it! You can add 2-4 ounces to your enema water.

Liquid chlorophyll is available at health food stores.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

Hydrogen peroxide (HP) is a great add to your enema water. Hydrogen peroxide eventually breaks down into oxygen in the body and this will help to neutralize parasites and other microorganisms that may be in the rectum.

There are 2 types of hydrogen peroxide you can use for your enema: 3% hydrogen peroxide and 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide.

If using regular 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1 ounce can be added to your enema water. If using 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide, half an ounce will suffice-it’s very powerful stuff. Use too much food-grade hydrogen peroxide and you could burn the tissues of the rectum, which can lead to rectal bleeding.

35% Food grade hydrogen peroxide is available from select health food stores. It’s not an easy item to find so you may have to search around and inquire for a while. Regular hydrogen peroxide is readily available from your local supermarket or pharmacy.

LIQUID BENTONITE CLAY

You can also use liquid bentonite clay (2-3 tablespoons) in your enema water. Bentonite clay will help to draw out toxins and impurities from the rectum. NEVER use powdered bentonite clay in your enema water, only liquid bentonite clay (also known as colloidal bentonite clay).

HERBAL TEA

Make a pot of herbal tea and let it cool down to room temperature, and then add it to the enema bag. Use laxative and colon conditioning herbs (in whole or cut and sifted form, not powdered) such as chamomile, black walnut hulls, cascara sagrada and senna leaves.

Boil the herbs in water on the stove and strain the tea into a separate container. Let them cool down to room temperature and then pour in my enema bag.

Inject the herbal solution (tea) going through the 3-5 minutes on left side, back, and right side routine, and then expelling on the toilet. Then follow up with a cool water rinse (which is really room temperature), which contains cool water and half an ounce of 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide.

COFFEE

The coffee enema is ideal to help cleanse the liver and also for purposes of weight release (if you need to release some excess weight or fat). The coffee enema is best performed once a month. If you do a weekly enema, the fourth one should be a liver cleanse and the other three should be coffee-free!

Coffee through the rectum is not absorbed into the bloodstream like when drinking coffee, so you don’t have to worry about anything, especially the concerns related to drinking coffee. Coffee in the rectum causes the liver to throw off toxins like a dump truck!

Only use organic coffee beans. It doesn’t matter which kind (or flavor) of coffee you use. However, the coffee beans need to be organic, preferably. You can find organic coffee beans at Whole Foods Market and other good health food stores.

How Often Can or Should I Perform An Enema?

You can perform an enema every other 2nd or 3rd day. You don’t need to perform enemas daily. Once a week usually suffices for optimal health and wellbeing. Perform an enema at least 1-2 times per month.

It’s best to perform an enema in the morning, on an empty stomach. In the morning, all the refuse and waste matter that has broken down over night during the body’s natural healing cycle (11 p.m. – 7 a.m.) is ready to be eliminated. If morning isn’t convenient, then before bedtime is the next best time to perform an enema.

If you perform an enema during the week and you work a job, make sure you wake up an hour early to perform your enema. You might fare well though to perform your enema on your day off from work.

Even if you get colonics performed, you should still perform an enema periodically.

Even if you detox 2-4 times per year with the Full Body Detox or some other Dherbs.com cleanse, you should still perform an enema periodically. In fact, it is ideal and recommended that you perform an enema during your cleanse, every other 3rd day for that matter, or once a week. It doesn’t matter what cleanse you may be performing, you can and should perform enemas during the cleanse.

Where Can I Purchase An Enema Bag?

You can purchase an enema bag at a commercial pharmacy, supermarket, or medical supply store. They usually cost under $10.00 and come with the necessary accessories, i.e. clamp, hose, speculum, etc.

Some enema bags may even serve as a douche bag. As long as the douche bag comes with the accessories that allow you to perform an enema, it’s okay.

Enemas, Babies and Small Children

Enemas could be performed on babies and small children if there is a need for the procedure, but it’s not recommended.

Thank you for reading!

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