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Constipation Remedies: The Good, the Bad, and the Natural

Constipation—generally defined as infrequent or difficult bowel movements—is not considered a disease of the digestive system or the colon. Instead, constipation is usually a symptom and sign that a person should make changes in his or her lifestyle to improve the function of the colon. This is why constipation remedies are often based on improving one’s diet, fluid intake, and exercise program. If these constipation remedies do not work, there are other natural options, including herbs, to relieve constipation.

In addition to encouraging more frequent and easier to pass stools, constipation remedies also help the secondary symptoms of constipation such as abdominal pain, bloating, and gas. Like acid reflux pain, chronic constipation is one of the most common stomach problems in the United States (it affects more than 4 million Americans at any given time), people are urgently seeking constipation remedies from pharmacies, supermarkets, health food stores, and their own kitchens.

The most commonly used of these constipation remedies is probably the least healthy option—over-the-counter laxatives. Consumers spend about $725 million on laxatives every year in the United States, in spite of their very undesirable side effects. The worst side effect of laxatives is dependence. Over time, laxatives can damage the nerves and muscles in the colon, and the body will become dependent on laxatives to have a bowel movement at all.

Due to the side effects of laxatives, healthier constipation remedies are becoming the rule rather than the exception. The following are some natural and herbal constipation remedies that have been effective for many people:

  • A high-fiber diet (20-35 grams of fiber a day)
  • Increased exercise
  • Avoiding diets high in fatty foods like cheese, eggs, and meats
  • Consuming prunes, prune juice, and dates
  • Certain strains of friendly bacteria (probiotics)
  • Abdominal massage
  • Licorice root
  • Dandelion root
  • Flaxseed
  • Psyllium seeds
  • Rhubarb root
  • Aloe, Buckthorn, and Senna (but do not overuse these herbal constipation remedies, as they are strong)

Other common constipation remedies are bulk-forming laxatives, stool softeners, and lubricants. Bulk-forming laxatives (fiber supplements that come in the form of pills or drink mixes) are typically considered safe but they must be taken with a lot of water. Some individuals also say they experience bloating and abdominal pain from bulk-forming laxatives. Stool softeners work by drawing more water into the colon. Lubricants, such as mineral oil, are constipation remedies that lubricate the stool. All in all, keep in mind that chronic constipation could be the sign of a more serious condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), especially if the constipation is accompanied by acid reflux, abdominal pain, and other digestive symptoms.

 


     

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