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hard stool
The human body has an efficient food intake and disposal system. Food is consumed through the mouth where it is first processed through chewing. This food is then passed into the stomach where it is further processed using stomach acids. The processed food passes through the intestines where nutrients are absorbed and passed into the blood stream. Waste food continues to move down to intestines until it reaches the colon. Here, the waste awaits disposal through the process of defecation. This process ensures that excess nutrition is not absorbed by the body. It also makes sure that the non-digestible elements of food are disposed off so that the body is cleaned and this could then allow fresh food to enter.
The process of consumption and defecation depends on several factors. If the body is functioning normally, then the quantity of fiber in the food is important. Fiber is of two types, that is soluble and insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber provides bulk and roughage to the food which makes it very important. Bulk and roughage allow the food to pass out of the digestive system easily. Soluble fibers help to pick up extra nutrition as well as moisture from the body. This is also useful as moisture is essential for the smooth passage of fecal matter. Hydration is thus an important factor in defecation. A person who is not consuming enough water may suffer from hard stool.
Hard stool is a condition where the pieces of fecal matter are extremely difficult to pass. This is usually because the pieces are large, dry and fairly solid. Under normal circumstances, the fecal matter is soft and can be manipulated to suit the shape of the colon as the body is passing this matter. When an individual suffers from hard stool, the fecal matter will be hard and therefore difficult to pass. Hard stool can cause severe pain and can also cause constipation. Many people who pass hard stools suffer from damage to their colon, rectum and anus. Bleeding after the passage of hard stool is a common problem for many individuals.
Hard stool can be avoided by improving one’s diet and lifestyle. When it comes to dietary factors, hard stool is avoided by consuming plenty of fiber. Fresh fruits and vegetables help to provide this fiber. One may also seek artificial sources of fiber. Regular defecation is important to prevent hard stool. This is because stool that is waiting in the colon may dry up to some extent, making it hard.
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