Millions of people visit the doctor every year as a result of constipation. It is caused by multiple things like the type of food you eat, medication, and even your lifestyle. According to a recent report, over $725 million is spent annually on laxatives in the US alone.
Adult females are more prone to this condition, compared to other males. This is because of their anatomical differences, social conditioning, concerns over public bathrooms hygiene, and their inclination to “healthy nutrition”.
First, let’s decipher the true meaning of the word constipation; It’s a situation where the bowel experiences minimal movements- usually less than three per week. As a result, the movement of food wastes through the digestive tract becomes abnormal.
Experiencing constipation can be annoying and seriously uncomfortable. Imagine having a bloated stomach, yet when you sit on the pot, you “shoot blanks”. That’s purely intimidating, right?
There are many natural remedies to relieve constipation:
We’ve compiled 5 natural remedies supported by science to help you relieve constipation at home, school, and when you are traveling.
Drink the recommended amount of water
Health practitioners all over the world highly recommend that you take 7-8 glasses of water every day.
As a result, you not only get a healthy skin and a vibrant blood circulation.
On the constipation front, you will find comfort in knowing that drinking carbonated/sparkling water helps escalate bowel movements. As a result, you will not only be hydrated but also experience regular bowel movements hence averting constipation.
Sparkling water is more effective in relieving constipation compared to tap water, which is why you should take a glass regularly. On the flipside, be precautious not to over-drink the carbonated drinks as they may end up worsening your constipation.
Put yourself on a workout program
It’s time for action, have you been experiencing constipation over the last week? You’ve tried everything you got in your hand and still, you are still suffering. Well, buddy, it’s about time you visit the gym or a yoga class.
Recent research carried out by the American Pregnancy Association (APA) shows that overall body exercises especially yoga, swimming, and jogging relieve constipation real quick. This is because exercises arouse the bowels thus helping your intestines to work efficiently.
For that reason, creating a 20-30 minutes daily workout program could give you a constipation-free life.
Eat food rich in fiber
Health practitioners have more than once stated that fiber is one of the best natural ways to relieve constipation. Fiber-rich foods are easily available in form of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Having one of those in your diet offers you 20-40 grams of fiber, of which it’s the recommended dosage for the whole day.
In addition, if you feel like the foods aren’t ticking all the boxes, there are amazing fiber supplements that work excellently.
To make fiber foods or supplements work well, it’s advisable to combine them with water. This is because fibers require water to navigate through the digestive tract.
Try out Organic Blackstrap Molasses
Traditionally used by medicine men as a remedy for constipation. Blackstrap molasses comes from boiled pure sugar cane and its packed with iron which is a great remedy for constipation.
Research indicates that it contains the low sugar contrary to its source, yet it houses the highest nutritional value compared to other sugars. It’s also important to note that molasses is rich in potassium and magnesium minerals which act as your ‘superheroes’ in demolishing the ‘villain’ constipation.
Blackstrap molasses works magic on your hardened tummy content by moisturizing them and making your bowels slimy. As an added bonus, it also helps in balancing and regulating the bowel pH compelling the intestines to form normal stool.
Visit the toilet when nature calls
It’s the simplest way to solve the ever complicated constipation equation. They say prevention is better than cure, going to the toilet when nature calls could kill two birds with one stone, relieving yourself and averting constipation.
Although this remedy may seem obvious many aren’t aware of how it works. As stool makes its way into the colon and the rectum it isn’t meant to stay there for extended periods as its only “waiting lounge”.
The more you hold poop inside there, the more the colon reabsorbs fluids from your stool. This results in constipation and your poop becoming hard. Going to the toilet when pressed could relieve you from constipation at the same time preventing constipation-related symptoms.
However, you may not be able to access a bathroom throughout the day which is pretty understandable. You can practice simple exercises to distract the colon and keep the bowel active and empty once you get home.
In conclusion:
Constipation is an uncomfortable and depressing problem caused by a number of things.
If you have a constipation problem, it’s always good to seek your doctor’s advice to establish the exact cause and find an effective treatment.
With that in mind, the above mentioned natural remedies will also afford you a significant relief.
About the Author:
Dan Chabert – Writing from Copenhagen, Denmark, Dan is an award-winning web lover and the Co-manager of several sites. You can check these out ThatSweetGift, Borncute, Contractorculture, Carseat Experts, Nicer Shoes and Runner Click. He is a travel Scholar at the same time a health Enthusiast.