Constipation occurs when bowel movements are sporadic or incomplete. Stools that are hard, dry and painful to expel as well as abdominal discomfort and pain during a daily bowel movement may also signal constipation. The Mayo Clinic notes that although the frequency of bowel movements can vary among individuals, a person may be constipated if he passes stools fewer than three times a week.
Diet
Changing your diet to include more fruits, fiber and yogurt may improve bouts of chronic constipation. Fruits add pectin to the diet, which helps to break down food so that it passes easily through the digestive tract. Fiber helps to move waste along the intestines and through the colon. It absorbs excess water so that stools are softer and easier to pass. Yogurt adds Lactobacillus acidophilus to the digestive tract. Acidophilus is a friendly bacteria that helps keep the intestines functioning at optimum efficiency. When the bacteria in the intestines are out of balance, constipation or diarrhea may occur.
Discontinuing the Use of Medications that Cause Constipation
Many medications list constipation as a side effect. Over-the-counter stomach aids can cause constipation, especially if used too often. Laxatives may also cause constipation if they are used too often. The body may become dependent on them and stop producing the chemicals that it needs to elicit a bowel movement on its own. Using medications for a long period of time can cause chronic and painful constipation.
Discontinuing medications that are known to cause constipation may be a remedy, but a physician should always be consulted first. There may be other medications on the market that can be utilized to help correct the problem.
Exercise
Exercising the body also exercises the internal organs and intestines. Remaining active keeps the body in shape on all levels, both inside and out. Sitting down for extended amounts of time or prolonged periods of inactivity can cause the colon to become sluggish or blocked. Walking, jogging or bicycling are all ways of moving the body that can help in relieving constipation. Participating in these activities at least two or three times a week can help produce regular bowel movements.
Increasing Fluids
If the body is dehydrated, stools can become hard and dry, making them difficult to expel. Increasing the amount of water consumed each day will help keep stools soft and able to pass more easily through the colon. Fiber absorbs excess water in the intestines and forms bulk that is needed to push the wastes through the colon and rectum.
As a person ages, fats and other insoluble materials stick to the walls of the colon. Fruits and vegetables have enzymes that work to break down the accumulation of sludge that can build up. Having adequate amounts of fiber and water in the intestines allows stools to move smoothly through while causing less buildup along the colon walls.
