Best Natural Home Remedies for Constipation

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Constipation is actually a common issue that can be resolved with diet and lifestyle changes. Rarely, it can be a sign of something more serious, so it would be best to address it early on.

Constipation is defined as bowel movements that are difficult to pass or not frequent enough. According to scientific standards, constipation is diagnosed when at-least two of multiple factors are present, including fewer than three bowel movements a week and lumpy stools for more than three months.

I find this absurd that you’d have to suffer for a quarter of a year before its considered constipation. Frankly, in my opinion, any type of bowel movement difficulties should be considered constipation.

Ideal bowel movement frequency is once per day, preferably more.

Causes of Constipation:

  • Stress.
  • Poor diet.
  • Gastrointestinal disorders.
  • Imbalance of gut flora.
  • Lack of exercise.
  • Hypothyroidism.

The above are only a few causes, but typically the most common. There are some other causes such as cancer, but this is more rare.

Effects of Constipation

While short-tern constipation is usually harmless, allowing your body to suffer through constipation long-term is not without consequence.

Your colon is not designed to store feces for long periods of time. Bowel movements are one way that your body eliminates harmful toxins, including excess metal, pollutants, and parasites. Feces that remain in your colon for too long will allow toxins to be reabsorbed through blood stream. Furthermore, chronic constipation throughout your lifetime can damage your intestines and increase the risk of gastrointestinal disorders.

Natural Constipation Relief

Constipation can be addressed through a multi-point approach as outlined below. Many individuals will receive relief quickly with these methods.

Adjust your diet. A healthy diet includes grass-fed meats, healthy fats, plenty of vegetables, and some fruit. Starches such as sweet potatoes are also a great choice. Beans, wheat, and sugar are not good dietary options for individuals suffering constipation. In addition, it’s important to have ample hydration in your body by drinking lots of water.

Address your gut flora. About 100 trillion beneficial bacteria reside in your gut lining. They have a broad range of functions including aiding in bowel movement and digestion. Chances are, if you consume the standard American diet full of processed foods and sugar, then you’ll have an imbalance of your flora.

While you can use probiotic supplements, I recommend choosing fermented foods instead. Fermented foods are cheaper and contain many times the amount of probiotics. Try and include at least two of the following: fermented vegetables, kefir, kombucha, or yogurt.

Manage your stress. This can never be emphasized enough; stress is a killer. Learn to manage your stress through meditation and living in the present.

Move around. Walking at a brisk pace for 20 to 30 minutes per day is highly beneficial for constipation.

Natural Supplements for Constipation

  • Magnesium
  • Senna
  • Aloe Vera Juice
  • Slippery Elm
  • Marshmallow Root

Magnesium is very effective at producing a bowel movement when taken orally. Furthermore, it is also beneficial when used in the form of an epsom salt bath. This helps relax muscles and promote bowel movement. Senna works by effecting your bowel muscles, allowing for a movement. Senna tea works very well at producing a movement within 12 hours. The slimy gel-like qualities of aloe vera juice also help aid in constipation. Slippery elm and marshmallow root also contain these same qualities and help promote movement.

Sources:

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/184704-overview

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8878010

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16393219

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Jake Toughill
Jake Toughill is an independent writer whom covers topics on health, nutrition, environmental issues and more. His personal website can be found at www.live-a-better-life.com