Dr. Gott: Try harmless constipation cure

Dr. Gott I am a healthy and active 45-year-old female. Due to severe constipation (five to seven days without a bowel movement), I have had two colonoscopies over the last eight years. Each has shown that my colon is about 2 feet longer than normal but is otherwise fine.

I was diagnosed with IBS, and my gastroenterologist put me on MiraLAX.

Dear Reader: You appear to have been correctly diagnosed as having IBS with constipation and were given appropriate treatment. You also appear to be responding well and have made suitable lifestyle changes to ensure proper health. The only other suggestion I have regarding lifestyle would be to include daily exercise, as this can also aid digestion and evacuation.

Fiber supplements are excellent for treatment of occasional or frequent constipation. They aid digestion, add bulk to the stool and allow for easier passage through the intestine and colon.

Laxatives and enemas are both appropriate treatment options for occasional constipation. They should not be used for extended periods or on a regular basis, as both can be habit-forming and cause damage to the colon. With repeated use, the bowel can actually “forget” how to function normally, leading to constipation.

My colon cocktail is neither habit-forming nor damaging. It is a combination of three foods that, when combined act, as a mild stimulant. Simply mix equal portions of applesauce, bran and prune juice. The bran adds fiber to the diet and the applesauce and prune juice urge the bowel to return to a normal function. One to 2 tablespoons taken daily or as needed can provide relief from occasional or frequent constipation.

Constipation once every few months is not harmful. As for your use of Senna tablets, you are correct to use them only if absolutely necessary. Despite the side-effect warnings, your judicious use is unlikely to cause a problem. Continue to use them or try one or more of my recommendations.

• Write  to Dr. Gott c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., 4th fl., New York, NY 10016.