Yes. Those who suffer from constipation need to drink plenty of water. Increasing the water content inside our gut helps stimulate bowel movements and soften stools. Mild dehydration could cause constipation. Water intake, when increased, helps relieve constipation. Drinking 2-3 litres of water and fluids each day is recommedned.

A few over-the-counter medicines to treat constipation are fiber supplements, osmotics, laxatives, and stimulants. Prescription-only medicines include prucalopride, lactulose, lubiprostone, and linaclotide. Lifestyle changes must be tried before taking medicines for constipation.

Yes, isabgol, the whitish husk, has both soluble and insoluble fibers, making it a great remedy for constipation. Mixing two spoons of isabgol in a glass of warm milk or water and drinking it before going to bed will provide relief from constipation.

Certain foods help relieve constipation by softening the stool, adding bulk, and increasing stool frequency. These include grapes, apples and pears, kiwis, pulses, yoghurt and kefir, prunes, pulses, whole wheat bread, olive and flaxseed oil, spinach and other greens.

The side effects of conventional treatment of constipation include an unpleasant taste in the mouth and nauseated feeling. It also includes stomach cramps, bloating, and an urge to vomit. A regular or large amount of laxative intake may lead to electrolyte imbalance. Always take medicines as per the doctor's prescriptions only.