Constipation is one of the common medical conditions with which a number of people suffer. Though it is not a troublesome problem with which people need treatment from doctors, it can be one if it is not treated timely with home remedies. Now, the question is how to cure constipation at home? Food you consume or avoid, lifestyle modifications or certain medications can cause constipation.
Did you know bowel movements less than three times a week is considered constipation? It impacts not only physical health but also mental health. Here are the top 10 remedies to cure constipation at home.
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10 Home Remedies To Cure Constipation
It is always good to go for home remedies rather than medications, so if you are facing some problem of constipation or chronic constipation, then don’t waste time and start taking the home remedies to cure constipation. Here is the list of home remedies:
Drink more water
Water is the best home remedy for constipation, so drink as much water as you can and stay hydrated. Carbonated water is one of the best solutions to this problem like sugary soda. But don’t consume too much of sugary drinks as this is not a good choice for the body. Dehydration can cause the problem of constipation, so always stay hydrated.
Eat more Fiber
Fiber is another effective and best home remedy for constipation. Increase fiber intake to increase the consistency of bowel movements and make them easier to pass. It is good to eat soluble fiber such as oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, and peas etc. They make the stool softer and it eventually resolves the problem.
Exercise More
Exercise does not affect the frequency of bowel movements but other studies say that exercise reduces the symptoms like cramping etc. Go for a brisk walk daily for 10-15 minutes. You can also practice some light exercises on a regular basis.
Consume Probiotic Food
Start taking probiotic foods even if your constipation is not chronic. These foods help to improve gut health by producing lactic acid and certain fatty acids. Probiotic foods relieve constipation by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and improving stool consistency.
Drink Caffeinated Drinks
Caffeinated drinks encourage bowel movement. The reason being it stimulates muscles in the digestive system. Coffee also contains soluble fibers but in very small amounts. This improves the balance of gut bacteria which helps to prevent constipation.
Consume laxatives (Herbal or Over-the-Counter)
You can consume laxatives to get relief from chronic constipation. The laxatives can be either herbal or over-the-counter. A herbal laxative, Senna, contains plant compounds known as glycosides that speed up bowel movements. This is generally recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers or patients suffering from other health conditions. A laxative can be consumed to-
Consume Prebiotic Food
This improves the balance of your good bacteria in the gut. When you consume prebiotic foods, your digestive health improves. There is an increase in the production of friendly bacteria. Include prebiotic foods such as onions, garlic and bananas in your daily diet.
Take Prunes
Fiber-rich prunes and prune juice makes the stool bulky and make them easy to pass. They also contain a natural laxative known as sorbitol. Prunes are the natural solution available for curing constipation.
Try Magnesium Citrate
When you consume magnesium citrate, it pulls in water into the intestines as it passes through the digestive system. The pulled-in water softens the stool and creates pressure. This results in the contraction of muscles which pushes the stools out. For children, it is better if you use milk of magnesia.
Go for an Enema
This works by softening the stool and building pressure inside the intestines. The lemon juice and salt cleanse the large intestine by flushing out excess feces. The mixture also balances the pH. This helps you excrete easily without straining.
Also Read: Which Food Habits Ease Evacuation
The bottom line
Practice these home remedies for constipation on a daily basis so that you get rid of them in just a few months. Leaving constipation untreated for long can give rise to other problems such as piles.
Home remedies and lifestyle changes can be inadequate to cure chronic constipation. Consult the doctor immediately who can resolve your problem easily.