First of all, let us consider bran, popularly called a “food” laxative. While it was believed for a time to have a chemical action, it has now been established that its action is mechanical. It increases the bulk of the intestinal contents and by reason of the spicate shape of its particles irritates the nerve […]

As we have said, correct breathing is at the basis of every exercise. It is through the lungs that our bodies receive their supply of oxygen and it is through the lungs that a large portion of the body’s waste, in the form of carbon dioxide, is eliminated. This exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, […]

First of all let us consider the effect that constipation has on our happiness, the ability to enjoy ourselves and to give pleasure to others, on our work and financial condition. Most of us, if we were asked what was the greatest blessing we can have, would promptly respond, health. But not because health in […]

We have said, is not a disease entity. It is a sign or symptom a sign that your body is being neglected or abused, or that some invading force has weakened your system and, in spite of your body’s gallant fight, is gaining control of it. It is a symptom of an abnormal condition in […]

Atonic constipation has for its immediate cause sluggishness of the muscles of the intestine. Spastic constipation, on the other hand, is brought about by a spasm or constriction of the muscles. The former type is the commoner one and is the type which concerns us. However, since nervousness is a state which is met with […]

It doesn’t require a scientifically trained mind to see what is wrong with such a day a day, too, that is all too common in any civilized community. Yet, as evidenced by the prevalence of constipation, colds and similar conditions due to unhygienic living habits, we are apt to neglect the simple rules of health. […]

And now, after all the nutriment has been absorbed and the flora of the intestines has done its duty, the waste matter is really ready at last to be evacuated. The mechanism is interesting. Remember that the inner surface of the colon is peculiarly constructed. It consists of a series of half-moon or semi-lunar folds […]

Constipation or intestinal stasis may be acute or chronic. “Acute” refers to that type of constipation which occurs quite suddenly and which is usually of short duration. Ordinarily this type of constipation is quite easily and simply remedied. This is because the trouble usually lies in the colon and the rest of the digestive tract […]

Before we see how the waste is eliminated, we should say a few words on the bacteriology of the intestines, for it is a matter of considerable importance. At birth the gastro intestinal tract of an infant is sterile, but shortly after various bacteria appear in the feces. These vary in type until the child […]

The term “small intestine” is somewhat misleading, for in an adult it is all of twenty feet long. “Small” refers only to its diameter which is considerably smaller than that of the large intestine. It is in reality one continuous tube, but is usually medically considered as being divided into three sections. The first part […]