Relief From Constipation

While no two people experience the same frequency or consistency in their bowel movements, you are considered constipated when you produce fewer than three stools within a week. And once you have a bowel movement, the stools are often rather dry, hard and difficult to pass. Numerous options are available to treat this condition, most of which involve simple lifestyle changes.

Diet

• Of all things that can restore normal bowel function, diet is by far one of the most effective. The first step is to increase the amount of fiber you eat each day. A good rule of thumb is to get 20 to 35 g of fiber per day. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber, but legumes and whole-grain products also will serve you well.

Fluids

• Diet isn't solely about the foods you eat. It also involves your fluid intake. Try to increase the amount of liquids you drink in a day. Water is the best, but almost any liquid (apart from alcohol) can soften and loosen your stool.

Exercise

• Regular physical exercise also can help with your bowel movements. Exercise improves your level of fitness, but also your overall health, including your intestines. Exercising every day stimulates your colon, triggering a bowel movement.

Nature

• For some people, constipation is the result of ignoring the "call of nature." When your body tells you to go to the bathroom, go to the bathroom. Resisting the urge can slow down your colon and cause constipation.

Laxatives

• When all else fails, consider a laxative. Fiber supplements are the best, but stimulants and stool softeners also do the trick. The problem with stimulants is the toll they take on your system. Over time, you can become dependent on them.

Prescription

• For more severe cases of constipation, talk to your doctor. He may prescribe a medication like lubiprostone or prucalopride, which stimulate bowel movements in different ways, but generally get results.