Now, how does modern medicine explain the deep insights of the Donguibogam? Constipation is a prime example showing how intricately and delicately our body is connected, rather than being simply an intestinal issue. Have you heard of the term gut-brain axis? The brain and the gut constantly exchange signals as if connected by a telephone line. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression affect the vagus nerve that regulates intestinal movement through the brain. When the sympathetic nerve is excessively activated, intestinal motility is inhibited, and conversely, when the parasympathetic nerve weakens, the intestines slow down, which can lead to constipation.
Also, you know that countless microorganisms of the gut microbiome live inside our intestines. When the balance of this microbial ecosystem is disrupted into dysbiosis, it is detrimental to gut health. When beneficial bacteria decrease and harmful bacteria increase, the production of short-chain fatty acids that increase stool volume declines, and the function of the intestinal mucosa deteriorates, which can even trigger inflammatory reactions. Furthermore, over 90% of serotonin, a neurotransmitter known as the happiness hormone produced in the gut, is made in the intestines. This is also an important reason why gut health influences even our mood.
Another modern medical cause is gastrointestinal motility disorder. There are many structural or functional problems, such as slow transit constipation, where the intestines move slowly, or pelvic floor dysfunction, where the pelvic floor muscle moves abnormally during defecation. Especially for women, hormone changes associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and childbirth can also have a major impact on intestinal motility. Hypothyroidism, in which thyroid hormone levels drop, also slows down intestinal motility and can become a cause of chronic constipation.
Dependence on laxatives is also a problem. Long-term use of a stimulant laxative damages enteric nerves and weakens the motor ability of the intestines themselves. It is just like a muscle forgetting how to move on its own. Ultimately, it can lead to laxative-dependent constipation, where defecation becomes difficult without medication. Just as the Donguibogam emphasized the balance of the whole body, modern medicine also views constipation not simply as an issue of defecation, but as a complex health signal encompassing the nervous system, endocrine system, microbial ecosystem, and even lifestyle habits. Moving beyond simply clearing the blockage, a fundamental approach that makes the intestines healthy and restores the body's balance is truly important.
