Western Medicine believes that most cases of constipation are harmless. In some cases, it is believed to be a symptom of an underlying disorder, such as intestinal cancer. They also believe that the most common cause of constipation in Western countries is the lack of fiber in their diet. Fiber is believed to help the muscles of the large intestine stimulate the release of stools. Obesity is becoming more and more common in our society. Western Medicine is unclear as to why some people become obese. It is thought that genetic factors play a part in developing obesity.

Western Medicine treats constipation by having patients increase their daily fiber intake and drinking more fluids. Laxatives and purgatives are not advised as they are believed to cause the bowels to become inactive. To increase weight loss, Western Medicine recommends a weight-loss diet in combination with regular exercise. For severely obese patients, surgical operations have been used to wire the jaw from opening too much, allowing less food to be consumed. Other surgical options include stapling the stomach together to reduce its size, and surgically bypassing a large portion of the small intestine to reduce the length of the digestive tract and allowing less food to be absorbed.

Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that individuals who are both overweight and constipated will suffer disorders such as asthma, heart disease, headache, high blood pressure, high sugar levels and high cholesterol levels. When the heart is strengthened, and the spleen/pancreas functions are balanced, appetite can be moderated and weight loss can begin. Constipation must be eliminated to prevent toxins from accumulating within the body and causing numerous health problems.

Treatment of constipation and obesity with Traditional Chinese Medicine includes the use of herbal medicines to help the heart, spleen, and pancreas functions. Acupuncture may be in conjunction with herbs to help increase the results of the treatment.