Constipation is a common complaint often resulting from the expectation of “regularity” in bowel-conscious individuals. Bowel movements are described as incomplete or hard and often require unusual straining. Other symptoms included feeling bloated, uncomfortable and sluggish. Poor diet, lack of exercise, prolonged travel and excessive use of laxatives and certain medication (pain killers) are causes of constipation.

Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint in North America resulting in more than 2 million doctor visits per year. However most people experiencing temporary constipation will self-medicate as is evident by the large laxative market.

Although treatment is dependent on the cause, severity and duration, in most cases diet or lifestyle changes are usually enough to relieve symptoms. If these changes do not result in a return to regular bowel habits then short-term use of laxatives may be required. Laxatives are taken by mouth and are available in liquid, tablet gum, powder or granule form. Laxatives should only be used as short-term treatment and persistent constipation should be tended to by a physician to determine if there are underlying medical conditions causing the problem.

Normacol®, a bulk-forming laxative, is a fibre supplement that is taken with water. Normacol fibre absorbs water and acts to increase the bulk and soften to stool for easier expulsion.