Diet for Constipation

Constipation is a condition in which the person is unable to expel the body's solid waste. Constipation also refers to difficult or infrequent bowel movement. Patients suffering from this condition find it extremely difficult to pass the stool out of the body, as it becomes dry and hard. Emptying the bowels can be very painful and usually causes lot of discomfort.

Diet for Constipation

A change in diet can cause as well as cure constipation. Inadequate water, and lack of fiber in the diet are the common causes of constipation. Increasing fiber and water intake helps to relieve constipation. Increasing dietary fiber is an effective way to treat this condition. Fiber not only alleviates chronic constipation, but, also promotes overall intestinal health. People suffering from constipation should eat foods high in fiber. Vegetables, whole grains and fruits are considered to be rich in fiber. Fresh fruits such as watermelons and cantaloupe have high water content and help combat constipation. Cereals such as oatmeal or bran are also good sources of fiber. However, high fat foods such as meats, cheese and eggs should be avoided as they are low in fiber. Boosting fiber intake also helps to keep the digestive system healthy.

Fiber is an important part of a balanced diet that can prevent constipation. A fiber rich diet can increase the size of the stool and speed up its passage through the body. In case of difficulty in digesting food rich in fiber, a better option to manage constipation is to eat soluble fiber, as it can be easily digested. Dried fruits such as apricots, figs and prunes are an excellent source of soluble fiber. Soluble fiber is also contained in apples, barley, breads and lentils.

Constipation is an indication of dehydration, which means sufficient water is not being consumed in a day. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water everyday helps to soften the stool and ease the symptoms of constipation. Inadequate water consumption results into dry, hard feces that are difficult to excrete. Adequate intake of fluids (fruit juice) play a crucial role in moving the hardened stool through the intestine. Tea or coffee are not fluids and should be avoided. Drinking carbonated or aerated drinks is also not recommended. A glass of water, taken early in the morning, can help in maintaining normal bowel movements.

In addition to high fiber diet, laxatives, that come in the form of pills and capsules, can also be used for constipation. They increase stool mobility and improve the condition of the patient. However, laxatives such as Epsom salts and senna (herb) are recommended only when traditional fiber supplements fail to relieve constipation.

To maximize benefits of fiber, it is essential to drink sufficient water and also exercise regularly. Exercising keeps the feces (body's solid waste) soft, thereby making it easy to pass through the intestines. Lack of exercise or inactivity can also increase the risk of constipation. Following these dietary changes can definitely help overcome constipation within a short time. Eating foods rich in fiber accompanied by a little exercise is a natural remedy for constipation.