Constipation is a word which can scare us to quite an extent. In short we can say that one finds it difficult to discuss the issue and feels embarrassed to even talk about it. Most of the times a person tries to self administer medicines in order to get relief from the constipation bug as he is not willing to talk about it to his family, friends or as for that matter even a doctor.
But let us face the truth! Constipation has become a very common problem nowadays and for some it has been like a daily routine. But what could be the possible reason behind the increase in the number of constipation stricken patients a doctor sees everyday.
Unfortunately it is nothing but our poor lifestyle which is to be blamed. Poor eating habits, excessive junk consumption, stress, not drinking enough water, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, pregnancy, over eating and not exercising could be some of the reasons.
Once you suffer from constipation along with hardened stools you can suffer from irritability, abdominal bloating, mood swings, nausea and vomiting.
Studies have clearly shown that about 14% of the Indian population suffers from constipation.
Constipation can be of two types organic and functional - organic being a deformation to the colon and functional can be due to a poor diet, less intake of fluids and continual stress.
But make sure that you do not ignore the signs of constipation as it can lead to various other issues like haemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulitis and so on.
Here are some effective home remedies which can help you in bidding adieu to the ''hardened stool mania''-
1. CASTOR OIL
Castor oil can work wonders!! Yes I am serious. It has been used for ages by our fathers and forefathers for treating constipation. Castor oil acts as a great laxative as it increases the movement of the intestines and helps in clearing it out instantly. It basically acts as a lubricant and helps in getting out the waste quickly without much ado.
How to consume it- Take 1 tsp of castor oil with a glass of warm water in the night at bedtime. Next morning you should be able to freshen up really well.
2. PRUNES
Prunes are nothing but dried plums which are endowed with the goodness of fibre and sorbitol. Fibre as we all know is known to facilitate the smooth functioning of our bowels and sorbitol, a natural form of sugar which does not get digested easily and hence can draw loads of water while its way to the intestines and add bulk to the stool.
How to consume it- Consume 3 prunes for at least a week everyday. You can also have a glass of warm water if required.
3. ALOE VERA JUICE
While aloe vera juice has been thought to be great for the skin and hair, it can actually help you in relieving constipation. Aloe vera juice can form a gel like substance in the tummy leading to mucus formation and increased intestinal peristalsis. It can also draw more water leading to the easy passage of stools.
How to consume it- Consume around 30ml of aloe vera juice (unsweetened and stabilised) with a glass of water at bedtime or early in the morning on waking up.
4. FLAX SEED OIL
Flax seed oil is known as a great remedy for constipation. It can again act as a lubricant and coat the stools in such a way which leads to easy passage of the same. In short the stools are able to sail freely through the intestines without an issue.
How to consume it- Consume 1 tsp of flax seed oil with a glass of warm water mid-morning for almost a week and see magical results.
5. YOGURT
If you need to keep your tummy healthy then its essential to consume yogurt. Why yogurt? Because it promotes growth of good bacteria in the gut and helps in preventing or considerably lessens the effects of constipation. So if you have to make your digestive system strong then its mandatory to consume yogurt on daily basis.
How to consume it- Add a cup of yogurt to fresh fruits or add it your breakfast cereal bowl.
While these remedies can relieve the problem of constipation efficiently, there are times when these might not work in some severe cases. If the problem is persistent then its best to visit a doctor and follow the advised prescription.
In addition to the above remedies, it is important to keep these points in mind:
- Eat a fibre rich meal comprising of fruits, veggies, brown rice, oatmeal etc.
- Drink at least 12-15 glasses of water.
- Exercise for at least 25-30 minutes.
- Reduce your stress levels.
- Get adequate rest and sleep at least 8 hours each day.
Make these changes and see the problem of constipation saying bye bye soon!