Relaxing helps digestion

Here's yet another item one can add to the already long list of reasons it's important to relax—digestive health.

Stress is widely known to disrupt the digestive system and doctors say that plenty of overworked, overtired people find themselves constipated simply because they can't unwind, especially in today's tough economic climate.

"The first question I ask clients who are constipated is, 'What can you delegate?'" said D. Milton Stokes, a registered dietitian. "All too often, people try to take on too much, especially at work, where office pressures cause people to delay going to the bathroom. That worsens constipation."

Of course, if one's idea of reducing stress involves taking a much-needed vacation or hitting a few social gatherings or parties, be sure to keep an eye on the menu. Overeating—especially indulging in high-fat dips, fried foods, cheese and even cocktails—can lead to constipation.

It's important to also know what might trigger constipation. Stokes offers these tips:

•"Diet is probably the most common contributor to constipation that I see with my clients. Portions have ballooned, people eat out more, and now more meals come from quick-service restaurants," said Stokes. He suggests incorporating plenty of high-fiber vegetables into meals and drinking lots of water.

•Too little exercise ranks as the second-most-common cause of constipation among Stokes's clients. "Exercise helps promote regularity while inactivity aggravates it," he said. "Individuals who lack adequate exercise are more prone to constipation."

•Prescription medications— including certain pain medicines, antidepressants, iron supplements and antacids—can cause constipation.

This article provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.