How to Fight Constipation Naturally

Millions of people suffer from constipation each year. It's not uncommon. Although you may be a bit embarrassed, you shouldn't hesitate to bring it up to your doctor. In rare cases, your colon could actually be blocked or there could be other reasons that make you appear to be constipated. You need to confirm that there are no other health reasons and that constipation is the actual problem. Once you do that, there are several ways that you can cure constipation.

Things You'll Need

• Fiber foods
• Water
• Activity
• Supplements/Medication (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  If you have problems with constipation, the first thing that you should evaluate is how much fiber you're getting. One of the most common reasons that could be causing your constipation is not getting enough fiber in your diet and eating too many foods that are high in fat. The American Dietetic Association suggests that you get at least 20-35 grams of fiber each day. However, most Americans get only 5-14 grams (according to the National Center for Health Statistics). Beans, bran, fresh fruit, beans, asparagus, and cabbage are all good fiber foods.

• 2

  Another primary cause of constipation is not drinking enough water. Many people are able to cure the occasional constipation simply by getting more water on a daily basis. Liquids help to add bulk to stools, which in turn makes them easier to pass. Remember that water is best; liquids containing alcohol or caffeine will not help.

• 3

  If you tend to not get much exercise, then increasing your activity can help cure constipation. For reasons that aren't clearly known, not getting enough exercise often leads to constipation. This often happens to people who are idle for long periods of time (think truck drivers) or those who are limited to movement after some kind of illness or injury.

• 4

  There are many over the counter medications you can try as a last resort. If needed, your doctor may also prescribe something for you. Some people swear that you can cure constipation with a colon cleanse. This is thought to be effective because it cleans out the toxins that have built up in your colon. If your diet is low in fiber, then your colon may start producing mucus in order to protect the interior from the toxins that are being created. There are many kinds of colon cleanse treatments widely available today. If you decide to try a colon cleanse, just be sure to incorporate a healthy diet and drink plenty of water from there on out to keep your body balanced.