Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders, prevalent in people of all ages, all across the globe. It can be described as a problem, where people suffer from either hard stools or irregular bowel movements. At times, excessive straining during a bowel movement is also referred to, as constipation. While it is true that the frequency of normal bowel movements could differ from one person to the other, a person who has less than 3 bowel movements in a week is regarded as being constipated, especially if the stools are very dry and hard. At times, constipation could also be accompanied by unfavorable symptoms such as excessive gas, abdominal cramps and the presence of blood in the stools. Some people may experience constipation as a one-off occurrence, but in many people it could be a chronic problem. In fact, studies indicate that there could be a correlation between diabetes and constipation.
While it may not necessarily be a serious problem, it could lead to a lot of discomfort. If left unchecked, constipation could lead to some severe health problems, like hemorrhoids too. Therefore, it is absolutely essential for people try out different method of relieving constipation as soon as possible.
There are two different types of cures for constipation and gas; at first, most health experts advise people to incorporate simple dietary and lifestyle changes, for relieving constipation naturally. However, if the constipation home remedies do not bring about the desired results, then there are certain medicines and laxatives that can also be prescribed. However, all people should remember that the remedies for constipation in children are quite different from the constipation home remedies for adults. Given below are some of the most commonly recommended natural remedies for constipation, which are suitable for adults and teenagers:
- Increasing the intake of fiber, by eating higher quantities of certain foods, which include whole grains, beans, vegetables and fruits, to soften the stools and add bulk to them
- Drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water in a day, to allow the stools to move through the intestines easily. Drinking warm water is a more effective way of relieving constipation. The most commonly recommended home remedy for constipation relief is drinking a cup of warm water, to which a teaspoon of honey has been added.
- Get an adequate amount of physical activity done in order to ease digestion
- Setting a proper schedule, to get the body used to passing bowel movements at a certain time
- Going through massage therapy, which includes certain massage techniques, like shiatsu or acupressure. The massage needs to focus on the abdominal area, to relax the bladder muscles as well as the intestines, to promote regular bowel activities.
- Avoiding certain foods that interfere with proper digestion and thereby lead to constipation, such as refined flour, processed food, meats, cheese and sugar.
The use of laxatives may be healthy on certain occasions; however, if used regularly, a person can become too dependant on them. There are many over the counter medicines and supplements that are also easily available, such as stimulants, saline laxatives, osmotics, lubricants, fiber supplements and stool softeners. However, such measures should only be used as the last resort.
While the natural remedies for constipation in adults mentioned above are fairly safe if used correctly, it is best to check with a doctor, before trying any of them. Women who are pregnant should avoid using any laxatives or stimulants and need to consult a doctor, for ways and means on relieving constipation. In addition to that it is absolutely essential for people to consult a doctor, for information on relieving diabetic constipation.
answered by G M