Monday, July 13, 2009

Home Remedies and Natural Treatments for Constipation

By Lee Jacobs

Natural treatments for constipation present a safe, effective and healthy alternative to the over the counter and prescription medications made to treat this common problem. These home remedies are easy to use and are part of an overall holistic health regimen, since they support digestive health naturally. Constipation isn't normally a serious problem, though if left untreated it can lead to fecal impaction, systemic toxicity, hemorrhoids and other health problems; so it's a problem which is definitely best avoided.

A key component of good health is having a healthy bowel movement daily. When this doesn't happen, it is usually due to constipation caused by poor lifestyle habits. Constipation is generally defined as a person having a bowel movement between zero and three times per week.

These problems can include impaction of fecal matter, hemorrhoids and even systemic toxicity. In people with a healthy GI tract and good digestion, a bowel movement is something that normally happens every day. If you go more than a day without one on a regular basis, you are more than likely constipated.

There are plenty of treatments available for constipation, but there can be side effects; and these treatments often address the symptom rather than the cause, so constipation often quickly recurs. By contrast, natural treatments for constipation treat the system as well as the cause, producing a more lasting cure.

Getting enough fiber in one's diet is the best and easiest natural treatment for constipation. It seems intuitive enough, but most of us don't get nearly enough fiber. If you're prone to the condition, changing your diet to one rich in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and seeds can make all the difference. Foods which are especially good include oatmeal, bananas, peaches, flaxseed and any fresh vegetables. Increasing fluid intake by getting more water and fresh fruit and vegetable juices is also a good home remedy for constipation which can treat and prevent the condition.

There is one very simple, easy natural treatment for constipation: a healthy diet based on fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains which provides you with the fiber you need to maintain proper GI function and prevent constipation. Some of the best foods to include in your diet are bananas, peaches, any green leafy vegetables, beans and plenty of whole grains. Increasing your intake of fluids also helps to prevent constipation; plain old water and fresh fruit and vegetable juices are the best to drink. In addition to the foods which should be in your diet, there are others which should be avoided.

Regular exercise is also crucial in maintaining a healthy bowel and treating constipation. Daily exercise that involves at least 30 minutes of movement is helpful in increasing circulation and optimizing intestinal function. Daily walking, jogging, yoga, tai chi and other mild to moderate exercise is recommended.

Natural treatments for constipation are safe, effective and cause no side effects. All it takes to treat and prevent this common and uncomfortable problem is to makes some small adjustments to your lifestyle and diet; and you'll be rewarded with better health all around! - 14130

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