Constipation Home Remedies

Constipation, a common disturbance of the digestive tract is the term given to a condition in which bowel movements occur less frequently than usual. The movements do not conduce to complete emptying of the bowel as well. Moreover, the stool becomes hard and small, thereby making it difficult or painful to pass. Besides infrequent bowel movements, other symptoms of constipation comprise bad breath, headaches, constant fullness, loss of appetite, pain in the lower back, diarrhea, etc.

Constipation is a major factor conducing to several diseases as it forms a predisposing factor in diseases like appendicitis, arthritis, cataract, cancer, etc. This is because retention of food for a longer time than intended, leads to production of toxins, which meander their way into the bloodstream and spread to all parts of the body. These toxins are absorbed into the system, causing various ailments. To avoid these ailments from affecting us, we need to prevent this constipation problem. Constipation home remedies can help resolve this issue.

Healthy and Balanced Diet
Bad diet is one of the primary causes of constipation. Consumption of food low in essential minerals and vitamins, excessive consumption of coffee or tea and less consumption of water can lead to improper bowel movements. A proper diet will reduce the chances of chronic constipation. Eat an apple everyday and drink 6-8 glasses of water.

Exercise
Exercise is another effective constipation home remedy. Bowel movements which are irregular can be combated by causing the food to move faster in the bowels. So go to a gym. Pregnant women oft encounter constipation problems, as their body functions have been altered to accommodate the growing fetus. Walking is particularly helpful in providing constipation relief.

Toilet Training
Irregular defecation progressively leads to constipation. Creating a defecating routine and improving bowel habits will help prevent chronic constipation problems. According to Dr. Schuster, the most natural time to go to a toilet is after a meal. Thus, one should pick any one meal of the day and after the meal, sit on the toilet for 10 minutes. Dr. Schuster also says that this will cause your colon to act as nature intended it to.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains adequate amounts of a water soluble fiber, called pectin that helps normalize the acid levels in the stomach, thereby improving digestion and bowel movements. For an effective constipation treatment, drink a mixture of 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and 8 oz water, three times a day. To make it more palatable, one can add the apple cider vinegar to grape juice or apple juice.

Honey
Honey has mild laxative properties, thus, try ingesting 1 tablespoon of honey 3 times a day. If this does not work on you, try mixing it with equal amounts of blackstrap molasses and having it. Since, honey and blackstrap molasses are high in calories, take them only occasionally.

Bulk Up
To ensure regular bowel movements, extra dietary fiber is also required. Dietary fiber adds mass to the stool, thereby stimulating the colon to push it along. Fruits, vegetables, beans, grains, meat, fish, etc. have adequate amounts of fiber content. A person needs 20-35 grams of dietary fiber a day. If your diet does not furnish your body with the necessary amounts of fiber, you can resort to fiber supplements. However, increase the fiber content in your diet gradually, so as to prevent gas and make sure you drink enough water.

Sesame seed
Sesame seeds provide roughage and bulk to the stool, thereby softening the contents in the intestines and making them easier to eliminate. Consuming ½ ounce of sesame seeds on a daily basis, along with lots of water will help prevent constipation. However, make sure you eat no more than ½ ounce of sesame seeds.

These were some basic home remedies for constipation which will help improve bowel movements and resolve the issue of constipation. Besides these remedies, there are loads of other remedies that one can try out. Ayurvedic medicines are also available to reduce and prevent constipation. Maintaining a healthy diet plan and regular exercise are key factors to solving this issue.