|
Constipation is the condition where a person’s bowel movement does not take place even though the person feels the need to defecate. The term can also be used by someone passing extremely large bits of feces with great difficulty, i.e. the motion is not smooth and is difficult to pass. Constipation is usually a short term problem that tends to correct itself. However, it can cause extreme pain and in severe cases cause bleeding in the rectum due to the excess pressure being applied while defecating. Natural Treatment for Constipation: One can treat constipation with medication such as laxatives. These are good as a short term treatment but are not recommended for long term use.
Excessive laxative usage will actually worsen the symptoms of constipation. If you are regularly constipated, it may point to a dietary problem or to a physical problem in your digestive system. You should try and change your diet to suit your condition first and if this does not work, visit a doctor.
There are some types of food that cause constipation, or that worsen the condition when it is already in existence. One should limit the intake of fat, as foods such as meats and sweets with high fat content are unhealthy and can cause constipation. Fat is also difficult to digest and if you are already suffering from constipation, it is not recommended to further overload your digestive system.
You should also avoid large meals because these are difficult to digest and they also produce a large quantity of fecal matter which just worsens the symptoms. Processed and canned foods are sometimes difficult to digest. Continuous consumption of these types of foods tends to limit one’s dietary fiber intake, particularly through vegetables.
Foods to Avoid Constipation: It is also advisable to have three regular meals every day.
Generally, morning breakfast is ignored and we tend to eat heavily during dinner time. This creates an imbalance in the rate of digestion throughout the day and can cause constipation. One should also replace fatty processed foods with vegetables and foods that contain dietary fiber. Fiber is important as it helps the food pass through the digestive system smoothly and prevents constipation. One must also increase the intake of water if one is constipated. Water may help loosen the bowels a little if consumed regularly through the day as it tends to be mixed with food in the stomach, which creates softer stools.
|