There is no one definition for regular bowel movement. It is relative to what is considered regular by one person may actually be irregular by the person beside him.
Regardless of frequency, constipation symptoms are identical across all cases. If you feel that you are having too many bowel movements as you would on a normal day, your stool has changed in color and consistency, you experience pain and discomfort while evacuation- then you are suffering from constipation.
The good news is that majority of cases of constipation does not signal serious medical conditions or debilitation diseases. When managed properly, relief is just a few hours away.
Instead of turning to medications for constipation relief, you can try out powerful home remedies instead.
While constipation is commonplace and should not be a cause for alarm, accompanying symptoms such as blood stool, weight loss, and abdominal pain should be raised to a doctor.
If you are experiencing normal constipation, here are remedies worth trying out:
- Castor Oil
Castor oil is a yellow-colored oil that is traditionally used to provide relief for run-of-the-mill constipation cases. Its laxative quality is the main reason why people still use it for constipation. In a recent study conducted in Nigeria, researchers discovered that castor oil was beneficial among children suffering from chronic constipation. With regular use, users gained the ability of moving their bowels more regularly. One of the major selling points of castor oil is its immediate effect and relief.
Due to its fast results, it is recommended that users accurately measure dosage before administration. It should never be taken during bedtime as this may disrupt sleeping patterns. Yet another downside to taking castor oil is that it is unpalatable. To counter this problem, users are recommended to refrigerate the oil before intake. Some experts also recommend of adding sweetening agents such as honey or orange juice to make the mixture palatable.
Although castor oil is considered safe for use, people should always measure accurately for correct dosage as consumption of large amounts may result in complications.
- Fiber
When it comes to the right nutrition for constipation, fiber is definitely at the top of our list. The digestive system, in order to perform properly, should receive up to 35 grams if dietary fiber per day. Fiber is commonplace in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is considered as one of the most convenient remedies for constipation as they are can be easily found in the kitchen. You may also choose to take fiber in supplement form. The most popular fiber supplements are psyllium and methylcellulose.
One of the drawbacks of using fiber is that when taken you take too much of it without adequate water intake, you end up with much worse case of constipation. In order for fiber to work, the digestive tract needs high amounts of water to move byproducts down the digestive tract. To avoid constipation from becoming worse, it is ideal for people to drink lots of water when taking fiber supplements.
- Herbs
The use of herbs is one of the oldest and most effective means of relieving constipation. Cultures from around the world used herbal plants and ingredients to treat constipation symptoms.
There are two types of herbal treatment approaches to put a halt to constipation:
- Stimulant laxatives
- Bulk forming
Bulk forming laxatives include the following items:
- flaxseed
- fenugreek
- barley
Bear in mind that flaxseed is different from flaxseed oil. The latter is not a remedy for constipation.
Stimulant laxatives include the following items:
- senna
- cascara segrada
- aloe
One important reminder when using stimulant laxatives is that they can cause abdominal cramping. This is especially true if you are going to use aloe. Traditionally, experts will recommend the use of senna than aloe. If you are taking medications, make sure that it does not interact with the herbal solution of choice. Some drugs may induce adverse reactions with herbal preparations.
Probiotics
Probiotics are bacteria that can be found naturally living in the gut. Introducing probiotics in the intestines are known to stimulate healthy digestion. Prime examples of probiotics are lactobacillus, bifidobacteroum, and sachhromyces boulardi. They are made available in supplement form.
Traditionally probiotics are integrated into food items such as yogurt, but there are specialized drinks such as Yakult with its main feature lactobacillus that is palatable, thus people do not have difficulties taking them altogether.
Probiotics is definitely one of the easiest ways to treat constipation due to its high accessibility. Most grocery stores carry probiotics and homes usually have a couple of bottles on hand for those bouts of constipation.
Lemon
It’s a great way to start the day with lemons as it can treat constipation. The acids help in moving food contents and other digestive materials down the gastrointestinal system. The use of lemon juice is undeniably the easiest and most effective remedy to treat constipation at home.
Fennel
Fennel seeds are great for solving digestive issues including indigestion, constipation, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome. The seeds are high in fiber and are known to cause significant movement along the gastrointestinal system.
Figs
Just like fennel and flaxseed, fig is saturated with fiber, making it an powerful all-natural laxative. People who have been suffering from chronic constipation may choose between the use of fresh and dry fig to be included in their diets.
If you have fresh figs on hand, you can simply eat them as is with skin on. The skin portion of the fig features high amounts of calcium and fiber.
You may also combine it with almonds to add taste.
Honey
If you have mild constipation, there is no need to use strong laxative. A mild laxative such as honey can do the trick for you. Consume at least two teaspoons of raw honey thrice a day for best results. You may also incorporate honey with lemon water. This powerful combination can treat acute to chronic constipation.
