The Common Causes of Constipation

Constipation, some people get it, some people do not and some people don’t know that they have got it. Constipation occurs when you pass small amounts of hard and dry bowel movements usually less than 3 times a week. This can be a painful and difficult experience for some or even just frustrating.

But what causes constipation? It is usually brought about by a poor diet, very little exercise, and is also a result of the colon, absorbing too much fecal water. The symptoms that accompany it include feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish. There are various treatments which normally depend on the severity and duration of the constipation, but more often than non the best relief and prevention is a dietary or lifestyle change.

Causes Of Constipation

As mentioned above, constipation is caused by poor diet and a lack of exercise. In terms of a poor diet, foods that are low in fiber, which are usually found in vegetables, fruits and whole grains, as well as foods that are high in fat cause one to become constipated. Breastfed babies are normally never constipated, but later when they do start solids they can experience it. However, fiber containing foods that are usually useful for older children and adults are really not much use in the treatment of infant constipation.

Not drinking enough liquids such as water and juice can also bring on constipation but beware of liquids such as soft drinks and milk, they tend to add to the problem. Not getting enough exercise and sometimes taking certain medication, including excessive use of laxatives can cause constipation.

It’s not always what we consume that causes this slow bowel passage. People who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), meaning that the colon goes into spasm, or any other colon problems may suffer either from constipation or from diarrhea. They often alternate and vary. Sometimes ignoring the body when there are signs of bowel movement may eventually entirely stop the urge to pass bowels. Many diseases and conditions such as diabetes, strokes, spinal injuries and lupus, among many others, can also bring about constipation.

The good news about constipation is that it is not life threatening and by observing and monitoring your bowel movement and making the necessary changes in your diet and lifestyle, this uncomfortable problem can be controlled and prevented. That sluggish and bloated feeling will disappear.

The Top Constipation Home Remedies

If you are like most people who suffer from constipation, you are probably having trouble finding constipation remedies that are actually effective. Rather than suffering in silence, why not take matters into your own hands and start experimenting with constipation home remedies? By taking some beneficial supplements or adding fiber-rich foods to your diet, you can say goodbye to the painful and uncomfortable symptoms of constipation once and for all.

Herbal Remedies that Work

A constipation herbal remedy may be the simple treatment you need in order to get rid of your constipation problems. Try drinking yerba mate tea. This South American tea is very helpful in getting rid of constipation. Yerba mate works because it softens fecal mass. By drinking 2-3 cups per day you can get rid of both acute and chronic constipation. Furthermore, drinking aloe vera juice twice a day can clean out the digestive system and heal it.

You will also find many herbal laxative teas on the market that are effective but only as short term constipation home remedies. Some people start to rely on them in order to have a daily bowel movement but be warned that many of these herbs are not safe to use for longer than a week. Some herbs found in herbal laxative teas include senna, buckthorn, and cascara sagrada.

Helpful Supplements

A good constipation home remedy that you can find at any health food store is a supplement. Apple pectin is a great supplement to take if you have constipation because it brings fibers into the body. Folic acid is another beneficial supplement for sufferers of constipation because generally an insufficient intake of folic acid can lead to constipation.

Constipation Home Remedies that You May Find in Your Pantry

Ginger tea is a great constipation home remedy because it helps start bowel movements. A diet based on generous amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables will go a long way in treating and preventing constipation because fruits and vegetables are high in fiber. Fibers make the stools softer so they pass through more easily. Prunes and figs are fiber rich fruits you can eat as a snack or with breakfast in order to add more fiber to your diet. Another option is adding a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds to any meal. You can sprinkle it on salads or hot cereal. Flax seeds have a nutty flavor.

So there you have it. Treating constipation may not be easy but it is possible if you start incorporating constipation home remedies into your diet. Try drinking teas, taking supplements, and eating foods that are known to prevent and treat constipation so you don’t have to suffer any longer.