THE FOLLOWING ARE SYMPTOMS AND CONDITIONS COMMONLY TREATED BY THE WASHINGTON ACUPUNCTURE CENTER. CONSTIPATION Although few people have a movement at the same time each day, many people consider themselves constipated because they don't and injure their intestines by taking laxatives. Drug companies give dangerous misinformation in their laxative advertising and encourage people to worry needlessly about constipation and take drugs which are harmful and less effective than safer treatment. Acupuncture is usually effective for relieving constipation by improving body physiology. Six treatments is usually enough, even if a patient has suffered from constipation for many years. Along with acupuncture, a patient should drink several glasses of fruit juice a day. Since citrus juice in such large quantities may cause mild bladder irritation, unsweetened grape, prune or fig juice can be used. Increasing water intake is also helpful. To restore and maintain the intestines in good condition, foods containing fiber should be included in the diet. Raw vegetables, bran, whole wheat, oats, sunflower seeds and many fruits are good sources of fiber. Cheese, milk, eggs and meat in the diet should be reduced to avoid constipation, although they are of nutritional value. Lack of exercise, depression, resentment, repressed hostility and excessive concern with neatness and cleanliness may cause constipation. Increasing exercise and enjoyment of life in general will tend to discourage constipation. next