Constipation is a condition in which a person has difficulty passing stools. It can be caused by a variety of things, including a change in diet, dehydration, or an underlying medical condition.
Home Remedies for Constipation Relief
There are many different home remedies for constipation. Some people swear by certain methods, while others find them to be ineffective. The best way to determine which remedy is right for you is to experiment with different ones until you find one that works well for you. Because not all remedies are suited for everyone. Here are Some Home Remedies for Constipation that you May Want to Try:
1. Drinking Plenty of Fluids:
This is one of the most important home remedies for constipation. When you are constipated, your stools become hard and dry, making them difficult to pass. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to soften your stools, making them easier to pass.
2. Eating More Fiber:
Fiber is important for a healthy digestive system. It helps to add bulk to your stools, making them easier to pass. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
3. Take Probiotics:
Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial for your gut. They can help to increase the good bacteria in your digestive system, which can help to relieve constipation. Probiotics are available in supplement form or in fermented foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut.
[ Read 10 Best Foods For Constipation ]
4. Exercise:
Exercise can help to stimulate your digestive system and may help to relieve constipation. A moderate amount of exercise is the key. Too much exercise can actually lead to constipation.
5. Try a Stool Softener:
Stool softeners are over-the-counter medications that can help to make your stools softer and easier to pass. They work by adding moisture to your stools. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully.
6. Bowel Hygiene:
Maintaining good bowel hygiene is important for preventing and relieving constipation. This includes going to the toilet when you have the urge, and not holding it in as it can make the stool harder and more difficult to pass.
7. Have Some Coffee:
Coffee can help to stimulate your digestive system and may help relieve constipation. Coffee stimulates contractions in the colon and the GI tract movement is increased. In a recent study it is found that coffee that is caffeinated works double than decaffeinated coffee in relieving constipation.
8. Use Laxatives:
Laxatives are medications that help to relieve constipation by making the stools softer and easier to pass. These are over the counter medications and should be used according to the directions on the label. There are many different types of laxatives, so be sure to talk to your doctor about which one is right for you.
9. Have Some Prunes or Prune Juice:
Prunes are high in fiber and also contain sorbitol, which is a natural laxative. This combination can help to relieve constipation. You can eat prunes or drink prune juice. Prunes are very effective against constipation and can act as a laxative.
People with IBS may want to avoid this as it is highly concentrated of sugar alcohols.
10. Try Enema:
Enema is a process of introducing liquids into the rectum and colon through the anus. This can help to relieve constipation by softening the stool and making it easier to pass. Enemas are available over the counter at most pharmacies. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully. You can either use tap water or sodium phosphate (Fleet) to perform enema.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you have tried all the home remedies for constipation and still not finding relief, then it is time to consult a doctor.
Some other symptoms which along with constipation can be an indication of some underlying health condition are:
- Abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Rectal bleeding
- Vomiting
- Inability to pass gas
- Inability to have a bowel movement after enema
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms along with constipation, then it is best to consult a doctor.
Some Useful Tips for Children
In children, constipation can be quite common. Some tips that can help relieve constipation in children are:
- Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids like water, juices, and soups.
- Increase the intake of soluble fiber in their diet by including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Make sure they are getting enough physical activity as it helps to stimulate the digestive system.
- Encourage them to go to the toilet when they feel the urge and not hold it in.
- Teach them good bowel hygiene habits like training for toilet can also be beneficial.
- If you child is experiencing severe constipation or if home remedies are not providing relief, then it is best to consult a doctor.
There are many different home remedies that can help to relieve constipation. Be sure to talk to your doctor about which one is right for you. If home remedies do not work, be sure to see your doctor as there may be a more serious underlying problem.
Read Also:
