Constipation and Gas

Constipation is characterized by infrequent bowel movements i.e less than three in a week, and dry, hard stools which are very difficult to eliminate. When the body wastes do not get eliminated properly due to constipation, certain toxins are produced in the body which cause gas. Thus, if a person is experiencing constipation and gas together, it is mainly due to constipation. Besides gas, some of the other symptoms of constipation are bad breath, bloated stomach, abdominal pain, headaches and indigestion. Here are some of the causes of constipation and gas, followed by its treatment.

Causes of Constipation and Gas
Below are the main causes of constipation and gas.

• Constipation and gas can be caused by dehydration resulting from insufficient intake of fluids and water.
• A change in diet or meal timings can result in constipation and gas.
• Consuming a diet, deficit in fiber can lead to constipation and gas.
• Constipation and gas can be a side effect of a medicine.
• A bowel disorder can cause constipation and gas in an occasional person.
• Stress and anxiety can cause constipation and gas.

Treatment for Constipation and Gas
There are many over the counter products, available in drug stores, that can bring constipation and gas relief. Typical constipation gas medicines include the bulk-forming laxatives, stimulant laxatives, saline laxatives, lubricants and stool softeners. Besides these medicines, there are many natural constipation remedies which can prove very effective in curing constipation gas. Here are some natural constipation and gas treatments.

Aloe Vera Juice
Consuming aloe vera juice for constipation can be very beneficial. Aloe vera cures constipation by stimulating the bowels, thereby aiding in frequent elimination of the feces. When the constipation is cured, the resultant gas gets cured by itself too. Besides juices, increasing the water intake to 2-3 liters per day to rehydrate the body can prove very beneficial too.

Prune Juice
Prune juice for constipation is very effective. Prunes are a natural laxative and help the intestines to absorb more fluids. When there is an increased quantity of fluids in the intestines, the dry stools caused due to constipation, become soft and hence are easily eliminated. Thus, having prune juice can cure both constipation and gas. A woman suffering from constipation and gas in early pregnancy is especially prescribed prune juice for relief.

Dietary Changes
Including lots of fiber in the diet is another constipation and gas relief remedy. So eat lots of fruits, vegetables, cereals, whole grains and prunes, as all these are high fiber foods. A high fiber diet helps in increasing the bulk of the stools and thus they can be eliminated easily. Besides high fiber foods, consume such foods that are rich in sorbitol such as apples, raspberries, apricots, prunes and grapes. Sorbitol helps in stool softening and thus, makes the elimination process easier. Some of the constipation relief foods are broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, oatmeal, asparagus, potato, honey, cabbage, yogurt, almonds, apricots, papayas, flaxseeds, green beans and the various bran based foods.

Exercise
Incorporating physical activities such as running, jogging, swimming or any kind of exercise in the daily schedule can help in relieving constipation and gas. In fact, constipation and gas in infants can be cured by making them do some simple leg exercises. Simply make the baby lie on his back and move his legs in a cyclic motion. This exercise will stimulate the bowels and thus help in curing constipation in infants. Constipation caused by anxiety and stress can be cured by doing yoga under a trained yoga professional.

These are a few remedies for constipation and gas relief which can be easily followed at home. However, if the constipation and gas symptoms refuse to go and are accompanied by severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, it is recommended to consult a doctor for proper diagnoses and treatment.