Constipation, a common gastrointestinal woe, affects individuals across various age groups differently. Among these, older adults often face unique challenges due to the interplay of age-related changes in bodily functions, altered dietary patterns, reduced physical activity, and medication use. In this blog, we delve into how constipation varies among different age groups, particularly focusing on older adults, and explore effective treatment strategies to alleviate this discomfort.

Constipation in Older Adults:

As individuals age, their bodies undergo several physiological changes that can impact bowel function. Reduced gastrointestinal motility, decreased muscle tone in the colon, and slower transit times are some of the factors that contribute to constipation in older adults. Additionally, decreased physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can further exacerbate the issue.

1. Dietary Patterns:

Diet plays a pivotal role in the development of constipation, and older adults often experience changes in their dietary habits. Many seniors may consume diets low in fiber, which is essential for promoting regular bowel movements. Fiber adds bulk to the stool, aiding in its movement through the intestines. With a lack of fiber, stool can become dry and difficult to pass, leading to constipation.

2. Fluid Intake:

Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy bowel function. However, older adults may be at risk of decreased fluid intake due to various factors, such as diminished thirst perception and medication side effects. Insufficient hydration can contribute to the hardening of stools and difficulty in passing them.

3. Medication Usage:

The use of medications among older adults is widespread due to the management of various chronic conditions. However, certain medications, including painkillers, antacids, and some antidepressants, are known to cause constipation as a side effect. This creates a cycle where treating one condition inadvertently leads to another. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to this medication-induced constipation.

How can you treat Constipation with Ayurveda?

Shri Chyawan Ayurveda has formulated constipation medicine for adults –Constipation Care. It consists of Churna i.e. Kabj Hari Churna & Syrup i.e. Liver Care Syrup, helps in a curing chronic constipation and its symptoms. It is made of 100% pure and natural ingredients making it safe for use and doesn’t cause any side effects.

1. Kabj Hari Churn:Kabj Hari Churn is by far the best ayurvedic medicine for constipation and gasfor adults available in the market. It will not only help you by treating Constipation, but also help with Acidity, Bloating, Gases and other stomach related issues.

Ingredients: It consists ofHarde, Sonth, Mulethi, Baheda, Hing, Variyali, Amaltas, Black Salt, Black pepper, Amla.

Some benefits of Kabj Hari Churn include:

• Improves Digestion: Shri Chyawan Ayurveda’s Kabj Hari Churn effectively helps to cure your problems related to digestive system and facilitates smooth digestion process.
• Relieves Constipation: It effectively helps to give you relief from stomach issues and constipation.
• Bloating and Gases: Kabj Hari Churn reduces stomach bloating, digestion issues and gases and reduces indigestion.
• Pure and Natural Product: Kabj Hari Churn is made using all natural and herbal ingredients and ensures smooth digestion process.

How to use: Kabj Hari Churn can be used by mixing 1-2gm of this churn with half cup of water, consume every day before going to bed.

2. Liver Care Syrup: Shri Chyawan Ayurveda's Liver Care Syrup is formulated to cleanse your liver and support digestion process. It also helps to strengthen the overall functioning of the liver.

Ingredients: It consists of Chitrakmul, Amla, Harde, Baheda, BelPatra, Dhana, Aloe vera, Ajwain, Punarnava, GiloySatva, NeemChal, Tulsi. 

How to use: Consume 1-2 teaspoonful of Liver Care Syrup, thrice a day or as suggested by your physician.

Benefits of Liver Care Syrup:

• Reduces Acidity: Shri Chyawan Ayurveda's Liver Care Syrup helps in reducing acidity and also reduces acid reflex issues as well.
• Detoxifier: Liver Care Syrup acts as a detoxifying agent and flushes out toxins from your body.
• Aids in Digestion: It also helps in digestion of food and boosts metabolism and solves constipation problem as well.
• Maintains Liver Health: Regular intake of Liver Care Plus Syrup helps to maintain Gut and Liver health.
• Safe& Natural: It is made from all herbal, ayurvedic ingredients and is safe and natural to use.

The medicines provided by Shri Chyawan Ayurveda i.e. Constipation Care is by far the best constipation treatment for adults currently.

Other Treatment Strategies include:

1. Diet Modification: Encouraging older adults to incorporate more fiber-rich foods into their diets can help alleviate constipation. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Gradually increasing fiber intake can prevent discomfort associated with sudden dietary changes.
2. Hydration: Promoting adequate fluid intake is essential. Offering fluids such as water, herbal teas, and broths can help prevent dehydration and soften stools.
3. Physical Activity: Encouraging regular physical activity can improve gastrointestinal motility. Even light exercises like walking or gentle stretches can have a positive impact on bowel movements.
4. Medication Management: Healthcare providers should review medication regimens and consider alternatives for drugs that contribute to constipation. If alternatives are not available, stool softeners or other medications can be prescribed to counteract the side effects.
5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Establishing a regular toileting routine can train the body to have bowel movements at consistent times. Responding promptly to the urge to defecate is essential to prevent stools from becoming dry and difficult to pass.
6. Laxatives and Stool Softeners: In some cases, medical intervention may be necessary. Laxatives and stool softeners can be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to provide short-term relief from constipation.
7. Probiotics: Probiotic supplements or foods containing live beneficial bacteria may help restore gut health and improve bowel regularity.

Constipation's impact varies across different age groups, with older adults facing a unique set of challenges. Age-related changes in bodily functions, dietary habits, physical activity, and medication use contribute to the prevalence of constipation in this group. Recognizing these factors and implementing appropriate lifestyle changes and treatment strategies can significantly improve the quality of life for older adults dealing with constipation. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals is crucial to develop personalized approaches that address these challenges effectively.