Just as diabetes can affect other internal organs, it can also cause gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, highlighting the important connection between diabetes and bowel movements. In fact, as many as 75% of diabetes patients report symptoms relating to their GI tract, which can mean anything from ailments of the mouth and esophagus, to the anal and rectal regions. Neuropathy caused by diabetes may affect nerves in the rectum or anal sphincter, both of which can cause diabetes bowel problems. Because the GI tract is not usually associated with diabetes, many patients might not recognize the connection, and will live with the inconvenience and discomfort longer than they have to.
Diabetes and Bowel Problems
Diabetes sufferers who have other symptoms such as vision loss, kidney disease, or nervous system disorders will likely have GI discomfort as well. Symptoms include difficulty in swallowing, early satiety, acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting. Additional complains that directly relate to diabetes and bowel movements include constipation, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Depending upon which nerves are damaged that affect the intestinal muscles, there can be a slowing or acceleration of bowel movements, resulting in either constipation or diarrhea.
Natural Prevention and Cures for Those with Diabetes: Bowel Problems can be A Thing of the Past
For those with diabetes, bowel movements need not be stressful events. There are preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of diabetes bowel problems, and also natural methods to ease symptoms and possibly cure the problem completely. It is wise to examine one’s lifestyle to deal with complications arising from diabetes and bowel movements. As one of the body’s most natural processes, it deserves gentle care and attention. It is of utmost importance for diabetes patients to carefully control their blood sugar, eat healthy foods, maintain a correct weight, and exercise daily. Diabetics should also not smoke tobacco. Be careful if you use over-the-counter and prescription laxatives, as over time, they may cause gas, cramps, nausea, bloating or diarrhea. They are never meant for long-term use (http://www.familydoctor.org). For gentle, natural relief of bowel issues, high fiber foods such as oats, barley, rye, peeled fruit and vegetables may help. It is also very important to drink plenty of fluids. At least (8) 8 ounce glasses a day is recommended, and water is best;. Try to limit caffeine, alcohol and fizzy drinks, as these can irritate the bladder. Including acidophilus or yogurt in your diet may also help with the complications of diabetes and bowel movements. For people with diabetes, bowel and bladder control is common. Exercises to keep your pelvic floor muscles strong can be a great solution.
