Skip to main content

Tips to avoid the 'slow roll' aka: Constipation

Written By All Seasons Integrative Health on November 28, 2023

How to avoid holiday constipation.

Forget the sugar plums and grab the prunes!

Let’s dive into a topic that might not be everyone's first choice for a holiday conversation: Constipation. 

So, forget the sugar plums and grab the prunes because in the latest podcast, Dr. Paul Bekkum and Dr. Victoria Lau shared some insights and a touch of humor on managing digestive health during the festive season.

The Holiday Digestive Dilemma:

As we indulge in holiday feasts, travel, and new culinary experiences, our digestive systems may experience some turbulence. Dr. Bekkum and Dr. Lau highlights the impact of changing diets, reduced exercise, and the overall lifestyle adjustments that accompany the holiday season. 

Listen up if you experience a  'slowed roll' that often accompanies festive overindulgence.

Favorite Holiday Foods:

Dr. Bekkum reminisce about his Thanksgiving traditions, combining deer hunting in Wisconsin with the classic turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Dr. Lau chimes in with her healthier take on holiday favorites, such as sweet potatoes with ghee and cinnamon. The hosts share their love for holiday treats but emphasize the potential impact on digestive health, urging listeners to consider the consequences of indulging in these occasional delights.

The Constipation Conundrum:

About 4 million people in the United States suffer from frequent constipation, leading to 2.5 million annual doctor visits. With a humorous touch, they discuss the desire to help listeners avoid spending hard-earned dollars on doctor visits for constipation and redirect those funds towards holiday gifts.

Factors Affecting Digestive Health:

The hosts explore various factors contributing to holiday constipation, including stress, dehydration from excessive coffee and alcohol consumption, and the sedentary nature of holiday gatherings. They stress the importance of regular bowel movements for overall health and discuss the potential negative effects of prolonged constipation, such as headaches and skin rashes.

Tips for Healthy Digestion:

Dr. Bekkum and Dr. Lau offer practical tips to help listeners maintain digestive health during the holidays. Suggestions include going for a post-meal walk, staying hydrated, and incorporating natural supplements like Betaine to support stomach acid production. They also emphasize the role of chiropractic care in ensuring the nervous system functions optimally.

Root Cause Exploration:

The hosts recommend exploring functional medicine to identify the root cause of digestive issues. They discuss the importance of addressing issues like gluten intolerance and avoiding the long-term use of acid blockers. Dr. Bekkum shared success stories of patients finding relief through simple supplements and lifestyle adjustments.

Holistic Approaches to Wellness:

Listeners are introduced to the holistic approach of the podcast hosts' chiropractic office, which includes chiropractic adjustments, functional medicine, laser treatments, and PEMF therapy. The hosts highlight the interconnectedness of bodily systems and stress the importance of maintaining overall health for optimal digestive function.

Conclusion:

In wrapping up the episode, Dr. Bekkum and Dr. Lau encourage listeners to share this valuable information with anyone experiencing digestive issues. They express gratitude for the audience's support and invite them to continue following the Extraordinary Health Podcast on their preferred streaming platforms. So, as you navigate the holiday season, keep these tips in mind to ensure your digestive system stays on the right track—both figuratively and literally!

Click on the image below to watch the whole podcast!

Screenshot 2023 11 20 111752