Dietary Analysis
Tonifying herbs and foods are the primary treatment for the above patient, who from the analysis is suffering from a lack of or minimal vital substance. These are Chinese traditional-based treatments for chronic constipation, which the patient is suffering from. The remedies mentioned are easy to prepare, very useful, and safe. The patient’s intake of processed foods has been detrimental to his health; therefore, the Chinese ingredients or remedies mentioned are helpful in correcting the problem. Chinese remedies for constipation consist only of ingredients that are natural (Cheng et al., 2009, p. 4895). These moisten the feces and lubricate the bowels allowing the uninterrupted passage of stool. The question arises of “what is the effectiveness of these medications and how do they stand in comparison to western-based medications?” This shows the importance of analyzing the Chinese diet and the proven effectiveness in their use in treating the cause of constipation.
According to Huang et al. (2011, p. 644), honey, green leaves and water are effective for the treatment of constipation since they lubricate the intestines and allow for easier bowel movement. According to Jong et al. (2010, p. 383), constipation is caused by among others, inadequate fluid intake which makes the feces to be hard and compact, and the bowel to be un-lubricated. The intake of honey and water help in softening the stool and lubricating the bowels to allow the passage of previously dry and impacted feces. According to Cheng (2011, p.127), constipation is also caused by inadequate intake of fiber; they recommend the increased intake of food with high fiber content, in addition to increasing the intake of fluids. Dietary fiber sources are recommended more than commercially available fiber sources since the commercial ones activate enzyme systems of bacteria in the colon. This leads to them being broken down, and their usefulness is, therefore, diminished and also causes flatus in the colon resulting in pain and distension. The green leaves, which are part of the Chinese treatment regimen, are a natural source of fiber, the fiber is indigestible and absorbs water to form a gel. (Bub et al., 2006, p. 557).
In a study conducted by Lin et al. (2009, p.1346), sesame oil was proven to be efficient in the management of constipation. It also provides immediate relief in those who use it, it was shown to be most effective when warmed a little and taken every night for three months. Sesame oil is effective in the treatment of constipation forever and those who used it did not report any incidence of constipation after use. It is a stool softener that works by lubricating the fecal material that is impacted in the colon. It also prevents water absorption from the stool aiding in making it soft. A massage on the abdomen still using the sesame oil aids in evacuation of the impacted feces (Lu, 2010, p. 512).
Tariq (2007, p. 217) demonstrated that milk is helpful in treating constipation; this is effective when warmed and mixed with pure ghee. It works by replacing the inadequate fluid in the body, this helps in evacuation of the impacted feces. Tindle et al. (2005, p. 45) demonstrated that black sesame seeds are used in the treatment of chronic constipation They have been shown to provide fiber, which helps in aiding colonic peristalsis. They also provide vitamins, minerals, nutrition and act on the liver, blood, kidney, and intestines. The fiber provided acts by increasing the bulk of fecal material, distending the intestines which initiate the peristalsis. When combined with peas, they help in lubricating the walls of the intestines. This allows the feces to be evacuated from the colon faster, and without any difficulties. The use of the seeds helps in reducing the degree of constipation and the straining during evacuation (Zheng-Li et al., 2007, p. 206).
According to Whiting & Ford (2011, p. 1003), alfalfa is a natural source of fiber and chlorophyll which are lacking in constipation. It also contains more proteins than wheat and corn and is a source of fat and water-dependent vitamins. Minerals are contained in it like magnesium, calcium, sodium and phosphorous. Its leaves, seeds and stems provide nutrients essential to the normal functioning of the digestive tract. It acts as a laxative and aids in the process of digestion plus is an effective tonic. It aids in bowel peristalsis, increases digestion by increasing insulin production, and ensures good food assimilation. It ensures a person’s good health and boosts the immune system (Cheng et al., 2011, p.197).
Conclusion
Constipation is caused by, among other things, inadequate fluid and natural fiber intake. The Chinese diet that is used as a remedy for constipation contains various natural ingredients which can be cooked or eaten raw in combination or alone. These ingredients are effective in the treatment of constipation; they do this by replenishing the deficiency of fiber that existent in the body and the inadequate body fluid. Studies conducted have proven that they are as effective as the western-based medicines which are prescribed in cases of constipation. They aid bowel peristalsis, soften the fecal material, and lubricate the walls of the intestines which ensure the quick and effective evacuation of fecal material. By using this diet, the patient will see improvement in his condition since these drugs are effective in treating this condition.
References
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