The 15 Best Ways to Treat Constipation

‍

Constipation is a common problem, affecting an estimated 42 million people in the United States. It’s characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements. Constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of fiber in the diet, dehydration, and certain medications. Constipation can be uncomfortable and even painful. But there are many things you can do to treat it. In this article, we’ll give you 15 of the best ways to treat constipation.

Eat more fiber

The most effective way to treat constipation is to increase your intake of fiber. Fiber is found in plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains. It helps regulate bowel movements by adding bulk to your stool and making it softer and easier to pass. Dietary fiber can also help lower your risk of constipation if you have diverticular disease. You can increase your fiber intake by eating more whole foods, taking fiber supplements, or adding fiber to your diet through your cooking. You can add fiber to your diet by making sure to eat lots of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains.

Drink more water

Water is essential for digestion, kidney function, and overall health. A daily intake of 2–3 liters of water is recommended. Dehydration can cause constipation and make it harder to treat. Increasing your water intake can help you avoid constipation and stay hydrated. When you have constipation, you can also use water to soothe your bowels, as well as a laxative.

Exercise regularly

Regular physical activity can improve digestion and help treat constipation. As little as 15–30 minutes per day of low-impact exercise can help you treat it. Exercises that have a gentle effect on the bowels include swimming, yoga, and tai chi. Sports or activities that require a lot of jumping or twisting are not recommended. A regular exercise routine can help you avoid constipation by improving your digestion, increasing blood flow, and improving your metabolism. It can also help you avoid constipation if you are pregnant or taking certain medications.

Take a stool softener

A stool softener is a type of laxative that helps you pass stool more easily. They are safe to use and generally very effective. Stool softeners are available over the counter and are an effective treatment for mild cases of constipation. They are particularly useful if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have diverticulitis, or have just had surgery. Stool softeners work by coating the lining of your intestines and increasing the amount of water in your bowels. This helps your stool become softer and easier to pass. They are typically taken just before bed so that the effects wear off during the night and don’t interrupt your day. Stool softeners can be helpful for constipation, but they shouldn’t be used long-term.

Use a laxative

A laxative is a type of medication that treats and prevents constipation by helping you go to the bathroom more easily. There are many different types of laxatives. They can be very effective in treating constipation, but they should only be used occasionally and under the supervision of a doctor. Laxatives are generally safe to use, but they can have side effects. In some cases, a laxative can cause constipation if you overuse it. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking a laxative to make sure it is safe for you to use. Laxatives come in many different forms, including liquids, powders, and tablets. They can also be given as enemas, suppositories, or injections.

Try enemas

An enema is a procedure that involves flushing your bowels with water to treat constipation. It can be an effective solution for constipation, particularly if you experience difficulty passing stool, have frequent bowel movements, or experience abdominal pain when trying to go to the bathroom. Enemas are particularly useful if you are pregnant or have recently had abdominal surgery. Enemas are generally safe to use and can be very effective for treating constipation. They usually work very quickly, which can be helpful if you are experiencing an urgent need to go to the bathroom. There are many different types of enemas. The most common type uses warm water, but some people prefer to use cold water.

Try probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria that can have a variety of health benefits. They are often taken as supplements to promote a healthy digestive system. Probiotics are particularly helpful for treating constipation if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). There is not enough evidence to suggest that probiotics treat constipation in people who do not have IBS. But they can be an effective treatment if you have constipation along with IBS. Probiotics can help treat constipation by improving your digestion and stimulating your immune system. They do this by increasing your body’s production of certain chemicals, including serotonin and nitric oxide—both of which can help you go to the bathroom more easily.

Avoid constipating foods

Some foods can cause constipation, so it’s important to pay attention to what you eat. In particular, be careful not to overindulge in the following foods: dairy products, such as cheese, ice cream, and crème fraîche; beans and legumes, such as baked beans and kidney beans; nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios; and whole grains, such as barley, spelled rye, and oatmeal. For some people, certain foods can cause constipation. If you are constipated, you can try avoiding these foods for a few days to see if it helps.

Manage your stress

Stress can cause constipation and make it harder to treat. Stress can also cause other gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). There are many different ways to manage your stress, such as exercising, practicing meditation, and participating in therapy. While it is not possible to completely avoid stress, learning to manage it can help treat your constipation.

Don’t ignore the urge to poop

If you have an urge to go to the bathroom and don’t listen to it, you can end up with constipation. If you feel the need to go to the bathroom and you don’t act on it, your colon could become “backed up” and cause constipation. Urging is normal, and it can occur for a variety of reasons. You should always go to the bathroom when you have an urge to go. If you ignore the urge to go, you could end up with constipation.

Manage your diet

Your diet can have a big impact on whether you have constipation or not. Consuming a high-fiber diet is very helpful for constipation. It can help keep your bowels healthy and regulate your bowel movements. It is also important to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you have chronic constipation, it can be helpful to see a dietitian help you create a diet that’s right for you.

See your doctor

If you are having trouble treating your constipation, it can be helpful to see your doctor. Your doctor can help you find the most effective treatment for your symptoms. They can also help you identify any underlying causes of your constipation. If you have been struggling with constipation, now is the time to take action. Start with these 15 tips, and you can soon be on the path to relief.