What is Constipation?

Constipation is the condition of the body in which the bowel movements are hard to pass. Severe constipation may gradually progress to anal fissures, fecal impaction, hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse.

The usual causes leading to constipation may be a low-fiber diet, not drinking enough water or lack of exercise. But, other major sources of constipation may be hypothyroidism, usage of pain-killers especially narcotics, iron components of vitamins and dependence on laxatives and antacids containing calcium.

Since constipation is more easily preventable than can be treated, one should try to avert the disorder by incorporating a high-fiber diet, exercise and a lot of fluid intake into one’s lifestyle.

One should include high-fiber diet and fruits and vegetables in their meals – apples, berries, peaches, oranges, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, carrots and peas amongst many other options available to us. Cutting back on the refined food intake and switching to whole-grain cereals also helps in easy movement of the bowel.

How to Find Relief from Constipation?

For those suffering from constipation, quick-relief laxatives from the drugstore is an easy option but these have their side-effects and do more harm than good in the long run as addiction to laxatives ultimately damages the colon. So it makes more sense to try means which our system will be able to endure.

1. Olive Oil

The benefits of olive oil are countless, and one of them is relief from constipation. Incorporating olive oil not only stimulates the digestive system but also prevents constipation. Taking one tablespoon of olive oil, especially organic extra virgin olive oil, with lemon (optional) on an empty stomach in the morning is beneficial for bowel movements.

2. Magnesium

Magnesium has the power to relax the muscles and nerves which include the intestinal and colon muscles and nerves as well. It also helps in softening the stools by drawing water inside the colon thereby facilitating the easy movement of stools. Magnesium Citrate and milk of magnesia along with many organic products are excellent laxatives.

3. Honey and blackstrap molasses

Both are good remedies for constipation due to the fact that they have high levels of Magnesium and hence, effective laxatives. Taking a tablespoon of both of them together before each meal helps to stay regular.

4. Bacterial effect

Bacteria are also involved in the process of digestion and play an important role in eliminating wastes from the bowel. Beneficial bacteria, in the colon, prevent the harmful bacteria and parasites taking up residence and causing problems to the digestive system. Taking yogurt regularly as well as a regular intake of specific supplements ensures that useful bacteria are there for facilitating bowel movements.

5. Coffee and Tea

Taking either tea or coffee early in the morning seems like a habit but it does more than freshen us; this habit works wonders for the bowel movement. Both of these beverages contain the natural stimulant which stimulates the digestive system – caffeine and gets the day going. But indulging in coffee too much would also have adverse effects. For those not interested in coffee, half teaspoon Oregon grape herb tincture with water should be taken before eating.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe Vera is mainly used for treating minor cuts and burns, but many of us are unaware that it is good for the stomach also. Two tablespoons of Aloe Vera gel from the plant mixed with fruit juice would suffice as the plant gel is concentrated. Those who are not available with this option can drink a cup of Aloe Vera juice for similar results.

7. Flaxseeds

Though Flaxseed oil works slowly, a spoonful of Flaxseed oil with a glass of Orange juice gets easy bowel movements as it is high in Fiber content. It works on the intestines as well as the colon which increases the frequency of the bowel movements. Flaxseeds can also be taken with our cereals during breakfast, or it can just be taken with warm water in the morning.

If you feel bloated with uncomfortable bowel movements, you know you are suffering from constipation. So practice these tips, for a long-term solution to bowel movement problems, and feel the difference.