Regularity

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Bowel regularity is associated with a decreased risk for colon cancer and hemorrhoids. ^[1] Bowel regularity is very important for health and constipation can increase the risk of certain bowel conditions. In the long term, small pouches can develop in the wall of the lower part of the colon, known as diverticuli.^[2]

Fiber also acts as a brush that keeps the intestinal walls clean from debris buildup. Fiber-rich foods also contain many other nutrients and phytochemicals important to health.^[3]

Fiber, which is not digested in the body, can absorb up to 30 times its own weight in water, so material in the digestive tract takes on bulk and a soft texture as it passes through the body. Without dietary fiber, the incidence of hemorrhoids, diverticular disease, IBS and even rectal cancer has been shown to increase.

Constipation is usually caused by insufficient bulk in the bowel movement, creating the need to strain to pass it. Increasing water intake, dietary fiber (see table below) and exercise are often effective remedies.^[8] Constipation can result from an upset in this microflora balance and may even be a symptom of parasitic infection. ^[9]

Constipation can result from an upset in this microflora balance and may even be a symptom of parasitic infection. ^[10]