Constipation on the Diet

Because of the restricted diet on P2 protocol, it is common to have a bowel movement once every two to three days. Constipation is often encountered when you have less food intake. If you stop losing weight and haven’t been regular, it’s probably time to get the bowels moving again. Here is what Dr. Simeons states in Pounds and Inches

“An excess of water keeps the feces soft, and that is very important in the obese, who commonly suffer from constipation and a spastic colon. While a patient is under treatment we never permit the use of any kind of laxative taken by mouth. We explain that owing to the restricted diet it is perfectly satisfactory and normal to have an evacuation of the bowel only once every three to four days and that, provided plenty of fluids are taken, this never leads to any disturbance. Only in those patients who begin to fret after four days do we allow the use of a suppository. Patients who observe this rule find that after treatment they have a perfectly normal bowel action and this delights many of them almost as much as their loss of weight.”(Pounds & Inches, Constipation, Page 36)

Here are a few ideas and products you can try to help this situation. As always, make sure you are drinking enough water, it is recommend 2 liters per day. Increasing fluid intake is all some need to get the bowels moving and keep them regular. There are some herbal teas that can help such as Smooth Move, Licorice, Yogi Get Regular, and Good Earth Laxative Tea. Available in the Marketplace.

You can also take supplements. Psyllium Husk and Cascara Sagrada are a herbal supplement that acts as a natural laxative. Psyllium Husk comes in powder and capsules but some find it hard to take the powder because it thickens quickly and turns into a light gel when consuming. You can help this by mixing with a little more water and adding some lemon juice. Also, those who take Magnesium and Epsom salt swear by their results. Peter Gillham’s Natural Calm which has magnesium is also recommended.

Purifying your body and doing a whole food detox has shown to help relieve constipation and is a great detox cleanser in any phase.  Click here to read more about the Health Pro Detox.