Constipation is an unpleasant condition that has affected most everyone at least once in their life. Children and the elderly are those more commonly plagued with this digestive problem. And, more women are affected than men, which may be explained by the fact that hormonal changes can . For some, this is a normal, everyday problem. For those of us who have regular bowels, experiencing only the occasional bout with constipation, we can't imagine living every day in that kind of discomfort.

Normally, the stool is hard, making it difficult to pass. Frequently, there is pain while attempting to void. These symptoms are usually accompanied by abdominal bloating and discomfort. The straining that a person does when they're constipated can lead to other conditions, such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, cracks or tears in the anus skin. Some people mistake frequency, or infrequency, of bowel movements with a constipation. Many people live their entire lives having only three or four bowel movements a week, while others would be concerned if they went one day without having at least one or even two bowel movements.

Some of the most common causes of constipation are lack of physical activity, not enough fiber in the diet, and not drinking enough fluids. There are also some medications that will cause constipation, among which are certain sedatives and anti-depressants. A healthy alternative to the toxic anti-depressants that can cause constipation is an organic, all natural B-vitamin complex which contains alfalfa, watercress, blue-green algae, nettle, suma, and other absorbable herbs.

Serious conditions related to constipation are rare, but can occur. If the condition persists for more than three months, occurring at least three days each month, and is accompanied by abdominal pain or discomfort, the person may have irritable bowel syndrome. Another, potentially dangerous condition caused by constipation is fecal impaction. If the stool gets so hard it can't be passed, the bowel becomes impacted. If you start to feel that you are possibly getting to the point of becoming impacted, don't wait! Take a strong, safe, herbal laxative that can handle the problem before it becomes unmanageable. A natural blend of senna leaves and pods, cascara sagrada, capsicum and fennel seed will provide the necessary relief.

The best approach, however, is prevention. If you've been constipated, there are ways to naturally reverse the condition. First, evaluate your fluid intake. Make sure you're drinking the recommended 6 to 8 glasses, or more, a day. Next, take a look at your diet. Are you eating a lot of foods that contain high fat and sugar? If so, replace them with high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals. If you've become a couch potato, get up and get moving. Some regular exercise, as often as possible, will help. And one thing that we often do and think nothing of, go when you first need to go. Suppressing the urge to have a bowel movement allows the water to be removed from the stool, causing it to become hard and, therefore, difficult to pass. Supplement your diet with a gentle herbal tea that will help stimulate a daily bowel movement and be sure to add a natural fiber blend including black walnut, irish moss, apple fiber, slippery elm bark and other beneficial ingredients which are safe to take every day to reverse constipation and ensure a healthy colon.

Suzanne VanDeGrift has developed this article on behalf of Dherbs.com, a provider of all natural herbal supplements.