Reduced frequency of bowel movements is one of the most reliable signs of declining metabolic rate, and it just happens to be one of the most common signs of aging. Reduced bowel movements are also the main factor behind chronic, low-grade endotoxemia seen in most adults over 35, and this endotoxemia is now recognized as a culprit behind virtually every chronic disease known to medicine. Conversely, constipation relief is one of the reliable indicators of increased metabolic rate and has been demonstrated to result in reduced inflammation, both in the GI tract and systemically. Medicine has already recognized chronic constipation as a reliable sign of impending ill health, but the “solutions” it offers are at best misguided and at worst may exacerbate the underlying metabolic problems. In other words, the laxatives sold OTC in most stores are probably something to be avoided. Even the relatively benign magnesium hydroxide can cause GI irritation when taken in doses that result in increased motility. The study below may have a simple solution – vitamin B1, also known as thiamine. Vitamin B1 is crucial for the oxidative metabolism of glucose and for the production of CO2. Increasing CO2 levels in the GI tract has already been shown to resolve constipation and possibly even serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study below suggests taking some extra B1 may be a simple and cheap way of resolving constipation, and thus systemic and digestive inflammation.
https://bmcgastroenterol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12876-024-03255-2
“…”This association suggests that enhanced intake of vitamin B1 through diet may facilitate softer stools and heightened intestinal motility, thereby potentially alleviating constipation symptoms. Consequently, healthcare professionals are advised to prioritize the promotion of a well-balanced diet as an initial therapeutic approach, preceding medical interventions,” the authors wrote.”
