Even though we all do it, pooping is one topic that most people would rather NOT discuss — even with their doctor. Yet, your bowel habits — from the frequency to the shape and color of your poop — can give you invaluable clues about what’s going on inside your body. You may find it crude, embarrassing or just plain gross, but the truth is that from a health standpoint your poop is not something to be ignored.
Dr. Bastomski’s Comments:
It is difficult to talk about healthy bowl movements without discussing dietary fiber. Most Americans are not getting enough fiber because most Americans do not eat enough fruits and vegetables. The average adult only eats 15 grams of fiber per day.
Women need 25 grams of fiber per day, and men need 38 grams per day, according to the Institute of Medicine.
Top sources of fiber are: beans (all kinds), peas, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, artichokes, whole wheat flour, barley, bulgur, bran, raspberries, blackberries, and prunes.
Good sources of fiber include: lettuce, dark leafy greens, broccoli, okra, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, potatoes with the skin, corn, snap beans, asparagus, cabbage, whole wheat pasta, oats, popcorn, nuts, raisins, pears, strawberries, oranges, bananas, blueberries, mangoes, and apples.
If one is not going to change their diet enough to get the necessary daily fiber from regular food sources then the next best option is to get into the habit of adding from 1 to 3 tablespoons of psyllium husk to their daily intake of supplements. Psyllium husk has been shown to benefit cardio vascular disease, assist in blood sugar control, hemorrhoids, and to lower overall cholesterol and also LDL (bad) cholesterol. Drink with 8 ounces of water. Each tablespoon will get you approximately 6 grams of fiber.
It is best to start by taking one serving of psyllium husk each day and gradually increasing to three servings per day if needed so the body can adapt. If minor gas or bloating occurs, reduce the amount of psyllium husk you consume daily until your system adjusts.
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If you would like to discuss this further please email me or contact my office at 805-569-5000 to schedule an appointment.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bastomski
Dr. Jacob Bastomski, a board-certified chiropractic neurologist, has served the Santa Barbara area since 1981. As a Santa Barbara chiropractor, Dr. Bastomski seeks to improve health through functional neurology and clinical nutrition.
Please contact us anytime at (805) 569-5000 if you’re looking for a holistic approach to alleviate a chronic condition, especially if traditional medical approaches have failed. Dr. Bastomski’s Back to Health Wellness Center is located at 1900 State St. Suite H in Santa Barbara
