Constipation can slow you down, cause extreme discomfort and even create serious health issues. But there is a way to relieve and even cure constipation.
What causes constipation?
There is no right answer for how often you should go, but when it’s not often enough, you’ll know. Constipation is a symptom of the body’s digestive system being out of whack. Eating over-processed or refined foods made with white flours and sugar can negatively impact your digestion. As a result, your daily output can slow down. Some prescription medications can also create constipation.
Constipation isn’t just about what goes into your body; it can be the body’s reaction to stress or a disruption in schedule as well. (If you’ve ever had difficulty moving your bowels on days you had to catch an early morning flight, this will sound familiar.) While these are temporary situations, they can still impact our level of physical comfort.
How to cure constipation
So if you are still wondering about how to cure constipation, here are some easy, all-natural tips for easing it. Most of these products you may find around the house.
Water – Drinking enough fluids is key to a functioning digestive process, however drinking water during a meal actually dilutes the digestive acids that break down food. Those acids are important to proper digestion which can help prevent constipation. Try drinking a glass of water with lemon about 30 minutes after each meal, and regularly throughout the day. The lemon acts as a detoxifier, helping to pull toxins from the digestive track.
Apple cider vinegar – This is one of the most functional products to keep in your house. Its uses are endless, but straight apple cider vinegar is too strong for most people’s palettes. Mix a teaspoon or tablespoon into a glass of water or hot tea. Stir in honey to taste. Drink 2–3 times per day.
Oil – Oil is a great lubricator for cars and machines, why wouldn’t it work as well in the human body? Take a tablespoon of natural oil – flaxseed, coconut or olive oil are best – on an empty stomach daily to ease and prevent constipation.
Fibre – the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” has some truth in it. Of course, apples, oranges, papayas and other fruits are ripe with nutrients, but they also contain water and fiber. Since fibre can’t be digested it has no choice but to make its way through the digestive track, absorbing water from the intestines as it goes.
Coffee – In small doses – think one to two cups a day – coffee can help stimulate the digestive track. Too much coffee can dehydrate your body, so don’t overdo it.
Exercise – One way to get things moving is to get moving. Daily exercise or light activity is important to keep our bodies functioning optimally. Even simple walking has benefits for the whole body.
Introduce these different tactics into your weekly routine one at a time to see which has a more positive effect on helping cure your constipation. You should be regular in no time!
