Holiday constipation: a new approach to an old problem

The holiday season brings festive meals, family gatherings and, for many Americans, an unwanted guest: constipation. As leftovers dwindle and digestive discomfort lingers, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Wendi has emerged with timely advice, offering a simple two-part solution for those who haven't visited the bathroom since Thanksgiving dinner.

Dr. Wendi, who refers to herself as "a legitimate poop doctor," outlined two main approaches for treating constipation, which she labels as "mush" and "push" methods.

The Mayo Clinic defines normal bowel habits as varying widely among individuals, with frequency ranging from three times per week to once or twice daily. What constitutes "regular" differs from person to person.

December, recognized as Constipation Awareness Month, brings timely attention to this common condition as many people deal with digestive issues following holiday celebrations.

"Mush treatments work by drawing water into the intestines, making the contents of it soft, making your poop soft, lubricating things and helping them move along the digestive tract," Dr. Wendi explained in her social media post addressing holiday-related digestive problems.

These mush-method treatments include several over-the-counter options such as Docusate, Miralax, Metamucil, Lactulose, and magnesium supplements. Dr. Wendi noted that kiwi fruit, rich in fiber, can also serve as a natural remedy.

While mush treatments can be used regularly, even daily, they typically require 24 to 48 hours to show results. For those seeking quicker relief, Dr. Wendi introduces the "push" method.

"These medications work by pushing things along your intestines and causing contractions, primarily of the colon," she said. Push treatments include medications like Senna and Dulcolax, as well as coffee consumption.

However, Dr. Wendi cautions against relying on push treatments long-term, describing them as "break the glass in case of emergency options."

"They work quickly, but they also work by stimulating contractions in the colon, so they can be painful when used," she explained.

Medical experts identify several factors that commonly contribute to holiday-related constipation:

- Dehydration, often from increased alcohol consumption

- Decreased fiber intake due to holiday food choices

- Limited physical activity during celebrations

- Overconsumption of rich, heavy foods

- Changes in daily routines

Common medications can also affect bowel movements, including:

- Opioid pain medications

- Antacids containing calcium or aluminum

- Antihistamines

- Some antidepressants

Holiday celebrations often combine multiple risk factors for constipation. The mixture of dehydrating alcoholic beverages, heavy foods, and extended periods of inactivity – such as spending days in comfortable clothing while moving only to serve more dessert – creates ideal conditions for digestive slowdown.

Dr. Wendi shared these treatment options on TikTok, where she regularly provides digestive health information to her followers. Her approach breaks down complex medical concepts into accessible terminology, helping people understand their options for relief.

Her advice coincides with a common post-holiday scenario: Many people experience changes in their regular bathroom habits following Thanksgiving celebrations. The combination of altered diet, reduced activity, and disrupted routines during holidays can significantly impact digestive patterns.

Healthcare providers recommend consulting with a medical professional before starting any new treatment regimen, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

This guidance comes at a crucial time, as many people may feel reluctant to discuss digestive issues despite their prevalence. By addressing these concerns openly and providing clear, practical solutions, medical experts like Dr. Wendi help normalize conversations about digestive health.

Regular bowel movements represent an essential aspect of overall health, and understanding available treatment options helps people make informed decisions about their digestive care, especially during holiday seasons when normal routines may be disrupted.

For those experiencing post-holiday constipation, Dr. Wendi's categorization of treatments into "mush" and "push" methods offers a straightforward approach to choosing an appropriate solution based on individual needs and time constraints.

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