Constipation is a condition which occurs when a person's bowel movements become infrequent (less than three times per week.) and can be characterized with hard feces which are difficult to pass. There are several causes of constipation, including slow moving food through the body, medications, diet, and various body and hormone disorders among others. There are many ways to treat constipation, including various nutritional remedies, all designed to provide a measure of relief.
Drink Water
One of the biggest culprits of constipation is dehydration. When the body does not have enough water, it begins to draw water from other areas of the body. One of the things the body draws water from is feces. When too much water is drawn out of feces, it will cause them to get hard, making it difficult for the body to pass them. The best way to keep this from happening is to make sure that you get your recommended daily intake of water per day. For women, this is 91 oz. and men need 125 oz. per day (this figure includes the water in your food).
Fiber
While we joke that fiber keeps people "regular," it is actually one of the best and most nutritious ways to ease constipation. Adding fiber to your diet will help constipation because the fiber in your intestine will bond to the water, which is there and will keep it there. Adding a serving of leafy greens or having fruit throughout the day will get the fiber you need into your body, plus you will get the added benefits of the vitamins and minerals which are in the foods. You can also try wheat or oat bran as a breakfast food or snack to add fiber to your diet.
Prunes
Prunes are often called "nature's remedy" because of their long association with curing constipation. This is because, in addition to their fiber quantity, they have a sugar called sorbitol. Sorbitol acts as a natural laxative and helps with colon and intestine health. Prunes can either be eaten or be imbibed as prune juice. If you are feeling constipated, drinking a glass in the morning and one in the evening will help the constipation disappear.
