9 ways to treat constipation

When a person is constipated, the first thing he or she might think of is an enema and a laxative. But there are many more ways to treat constipation. Together, they can give much better results. What are these ways to get rid of constipation?

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What is constipation?

Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints. Normal bowel movement frequency ranges from one or more times a day to three times a week. If you have experienced constipation yourself, you probably already know that constipation is also defined as having hard, dry stools less than three times a week.

When constipated, a person may also feel bloated and uncomfortable, and may not find enough strength to pass stool.

Although constipation can affect anyone, it is more common in women and in people over 65. It also tends to affect women during pregnancy, after childbirth, or after surgery, as well as due to the use of certain medications, such as opioid analgesics, and with the development of certain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.

Remedies for constipation

Fiber

A low-fiber diet can help with constipation. Insoluble fiber, which passes through the digestive system almost unchanged, gives stool a loose, soft texture, making it easier to pass through the rectum.

Foods that contain insoluble fiber include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Try adding wheat bran, brown rice, or whole grain bread to your menu as well.

Soluble fiber dissolves in water, forming a gel-like substance in the intestines. Prunes and figs can be added to breakfast or eaten as a snack.

Another option for a constipation diet is to include flaxseed at every meal. Flaxseed can be purchased in bags at health food stores or grocery stores. They have a pleasant, mild, spicy flavor. Add fiber to your diet gradually to avoid bloating and gas. Also make sure you drink enough water, otherwise the fiber can have the opposite effect and contribute to constipation.

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Liquid

Make sure you drink enough fluids, as plain, clean water can help some people with constipation. Fluids will make bowel movements softer and easier for stool to pass through the rectum.

Reduce your intake of alcoholic beverages and caffeinated beverages such as coffee and soda, which can cause dehydration.

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Stimulants and laxatives

Many herbal laxatives and special teas are called stimulants, laxatives. They include herbs such as

• Rhubarb
• Aloe
• Senna
• Sea buckthorn

Some of these herbs, such as senna, are very good for treating constipation. Although they are intended as short-term treatment, in reality, a person can become dependent on them and use them for weeks, months, or even years in order to have a bowel movement every day.

They should not be used for more than a week, and if the period of use is longer, then these methods can only be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Long-term use of herbal laxatives can cause the bowels to lose their ability to move on their own. Chronic laxative use has been linked to chronic diarrhea, potassium deficiency, leading to muscle weakness and potentially dangerous irregular heart rhythms, as well as kidney or liver failure.

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Biofeedback method

Biofeedback therapy can help people with constipation due to pelvic floor dysfunction, which is a condition in which the pelvic floor muscles do not function properly. This occurs as a result of obesity, an enlarged prostate, or after childbirth.

A biofeedback therapist will teach the patient how to better coordinate the muscles and how to use them better for defecation. About 70% of patients with constipation showed significant improvement in symptoms after biofeedback training.

Although this treatment system for this type of constipation is still being studied, the results are promising.

For example, one study comparing the effects of biofeedback (one session per week for five weeks) and laxatives (polyethylene glycol 14.6 to 29.2 grams per day) found that the former showed better results in people with chronic, severe pelvic floor dysfunction. All participants had previously tried fiber supplements plus suppositories, but their bodies did not respond as expected.

After six months of biofeedback, these sessions were more effective than laxatives. The benefits lasted for at least two years.

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Probiotics

Probiotics, such as lactobacillus acidophilus, are microorganisms that naturally live in the digestive tract. Some of the ways they promote gut health include inhibiting the growth of potentially harmful bacteria, improving immune system function, enhancing the protective barrier of the digestive tract, and helping to produce vitamin K.

There is some preliminary evidence that probiotic supplements may improve constipation. For example, one recent study looked at the effects of probiotic drinks containing a strain of beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus casei Shirota. Given at 65 ml per day, it was as effective as a placebo in people with chronic constipation. Taking the probiotic resulted in significant improvements in constipation and softer stool consistency.

Another study looked at the effectiveness of a different strain of probiotics on constipation in children and found no effect. Eighty-four children aged two to 16 years were given lactulose (a laxative) plus probiotic supplements containing lactobacillus GG or lactulose alone for constipation. After 12 and 24 weeks, the lactobacillus treatment was no more effective than lactulose for constipation.

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Acupressure

Acupressure is a traditional healing practice that involves applying finger pressure to specific acupuncture points on the body.

Acupuncture points for constipation are those in the colon area. Although they have not been studied extensively for their effects on constipation, this is a simple home remedy that can work effectively for many people. Caution: Do not use this if you are pregnant.

Apply pressure with your thumb or middle finger at a 90 degree angle to the skin, gradually increasing the pressure. Hold the finger pressure for three minutes. The pressure should not be painful or uncomfortable.

Magnesium

A deficiency in the mineral magnesium salt can contribute to constipation. Magnesium can be obtained from foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in addition.

Magnesium is essential for normal muscle function, including the muscles in your intestines. One recent study tested magnesium intake with constipation in 3,835 women. Low magnesium levels were associated with constipation.

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Other Natural Remedies for Constipation

• Barberry
• Knapweed
• Sea buckthorn
• Dandelion
• Fenugreek
• Honey
• Milk thistle
• Red raspberry
• Elm

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Other tips for combating constipation

1. Exercise regularly. Lack of physical activity can lead to constipation.
2. Don't delay seeing a doctor if you have constipation. The longer you wait to see a doctor when you have trouble passing stool, the more water is absorbed from the stool and the more difficult it is to pass stool.

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