Natural remedies for constipation. What are the best foods for IBS?

• Constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, are sometimes, but not always related. You need to determine, perhaps with the help of your doctor, whether you are suffering only from constipation or from IBS. For a simple case of constipation, the simplest and most natural treatments are the best - eat lots of fruits and vegetables, particularly those that are high in fiber, and exercise daily. Other home remedies include warm water with a few spoons of lemon juice (or a teaspoon of honey), ginger tea, and folic acid. One traditional home remedy that that you should avoid is castor oil, which, although approved by the FDA as a laxative, is no longer recommended for constipation.
• IBS is relatively more complex and still not very well understood. Constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn are some of its symptoms. Due to the wide variety of possible causes of IBS, it is best that you consult your doctor to determine what treatment is best for you. As far as your diet goes, eat smaller but more frequent meals, avoid red meat, oily foods, milk products, fruits and vegetables that are high in insoluble fiber, coffee, alcohol, and aerated drinks. As you can see, it's a long list, and some of these foods may not affect you as much as others. It's best to decide on a diet and medical treatment in consultation with your doctor.

answered by G M

Home cure for constipation and recommended IBS diet

• Eat at least six servings each of fresh fruits and vegetables. Leafy vegetables, oatmeal, sprouts, brown rice, asparagus, sweet potatoes, cabbage, carrots, beans, garlic, okra, barley, oats, apples, apricots, bananas, blackberries, grapes, peaches, figs and prunes are rich in soluble fibers and an ideal IBS diet.
• The insoluble foods like, cereals, seeds, and the skins of many vegetables and fruits are high in insoluble fiber and provide roughage to relieve constipation.
• Drink as much water or juices as you can even if you do not always feel thirsty. This helps in dissolving some fibers and does not allow food particles to accumulate in the lining of the intestines.
• Do not eat spicy foods or foods that are rich in fats and high in cholesterol.
• Avoid processed food, soft drinks, fried foods, white flour, alcohol, red meat, coffee or sugar.
• Divide your meals into six small ones and try exercising regularly.
• Go to the toilet each time, relax and read. Do not repress the urge to urinate or pass stool at any cost even if you have to go several times.
• In extreme cases of constipation, take plain water enema.
• Eating one apple half an hour meals, helps in relieving constipation.

answered by D D