Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Healthwatch, we're talking about health issues for older adults. There's one problem that often affects seniors but that seniors don't like to talk about: constipation. Constipation can be caused by a number of factors, including stress, too little water or fiber, a change in routine, over-consumption of dairy products and overuse of laxatives.
Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center say one of the best ways to avoid consti-
pation is to exercise more often. Walking about 20 minutes a day can reduce or even eliminate your need for laxatives. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, bran cereal and whole-grain bread can also help. If the problem lasts longer than a couple of weeks, talk to your doctor.
Next: What should you do about arthritis pain?
###
March 2005
Health Watch is heard Monday through Friday nationwide on the "Stardust" format of ABC Satellite Radio. Call your local radio station and ask if they carry the program.
