Constipation occurs when it becomes difficult or painful to have regular bowel movements. What’s “regular” varies by person, however.
Some people have three bowel movements per day, while others have three movements per week, the American Academy of Family Physicians says.
Here are the academy’s suggestions for staying regular:
When you feel the need to have a bowel movement, don't put it off.
Schedule time each day to have a bowel movement, such as after a meal.
Boost your fibre intake.
Drink plenty of water -- aim for eight glasses each day.
Don't rely on laxatives, as taking them too frequently can worsen constipation.
Get regular exercise.
Avoid sugary and high-fat foods that can contribute to constipation.
Dealing with picky eaters
Getting children who are picky eaters to eat healthy foods may be a challenge.
The American Academy of Pediatricians offers these suggestions:
Pack lots of nutrients in your meals, such as by adding grated veggies into baked breads, muffins, pastas and soups, and adding nonfat dry milk into milkshakes or puddings.
Offer the child a favourite food if he or she also eats something that isn't well-liked.
Even if your child refused a food once, try serving it again.
Let children participate in preparing food so they're more anxious to eat it.
Prepare foods in fun and interesting ways, such as by cutting them into fun shapes or adding a smiley face.
Eat a variety of healthy foods yourself, providing a good example for your child.
Check your skin for signs of cancer
Regular self-exams of the skin can help you spot the beginning signs of skin cancer, allowing you to start treatment while the cancer is in its early stage.
The American Academy of Dermatology says you should look for any changes in your skin, particularly a growth that changes in size or appearance. You should also look for any mole, birthmark or spot that appears irregular, changes colour or size, or hurts or bleeds.
Here are the academy’s suggestions for performing a skin self-exam:
Looking in a mirror, inspect the front and back of your body, then lift your arms and inspect your sides.
Bend your elbows and examine the entire length of both arms, hands and palms.
Inspect the fronts and backs of your legs, tops and bottoms of your feet and between your toes.
Using a hand mirror, look at the back of your neck and your scalp. Move your hair to inspect the scalp.
Use the hand mirror to also check your back and buttocks.
(HealthDay News)
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