Cure For Constipation
Cure For Constipation
Constipation is one of the most frequent bowel disorders people are prone to. Uncomfortable and unsettling, constipation can make you feel bloated, cramped, and frustrated for days on end. Constipation is especially worrisome as it is also the symptom of more serious medical conditions. The good news is there are plenty of cures for constipation, and plenty of preventative measures you can take to avoid it from happening in the first place.
More often than not, constipation is a sign that you haven't been getting enough fiber in your diet. Foods high in fiber are the best cure for constipation, and you really can't eat too many of them. Oatmeal, bran muffins, and fruits are all good sources of fiber. Dried apricots, prunes, grapes, apples, pears and bananas are especially good fruits to eat for fiber. Leafy greens like lettuces, spinach, and celery, are good vegetables for fiber. Also, nuts are a good fiber source as well; I pour a bunch of crushed walnuts and raisins in with my oatmeal for an ultra high fiber breakfast.
Another cure for constipation is to boost the amount of water you drink throughout the day. You may be getting enough fiber, but aren't taking in enough water for the fiber to absorb. In order to act as a cure for constipation, fiber needs to soak in water, which allows it to expand and help clear your intestinal tract. If you're eating plenty of high fiber foods and are still constipated, drink more water!
Finally, many people don't know that exercise is also a good cure for constipation. Constipation is often caused by an inactive and sedentary lifestyle, and even just a moderate increase in your activity levels, such as talking a short walk everyday, may serve as a healthy and effective remedy for constipation.
The last resort is of course laxatives. If you're taken all the above measures and are still constipated, you may need to use a stool softener or laxative just to get things moving again. There are plenty on the market, and your guess is as good as mine as to which is the best. Generally, I would stick to tried and tested products, and avoid all natural cures for constipation, as laxatives can often be harsh and have adverse side effects.
If you find that you are relying on laxatives as a cure for constipation, you should also probably see a doctor. An occasional use of a laxative is pretty normal, but if you are getting exercise, eating fiber and drinking water yet still need laxatives frequently there may be something more serious going on. It's never a bad idea to see a doctor about changes to your bowel habits, and at the very least he or she will be able to help you find some cures for constipation.