For most people, natural laxatives can be just as effective as some over-the-counter medicines. Sometimes diet can have a negative effect on digestion, which is the main reason for difficult bowel movements. Instead of resorting to medication directly, you can alleviate the symptoms of such conditions with lifestyle changes and dietary changes. This way you keep your digestive tract healthy without having to worry about risks and side effects. Here are some nutrition tips and foods that can help you with that.
If you want to avoid the pharmacy and instead head to the grocery store, eating healthy every day could actually have a positive impact on your gut health. Over-the-counter medicines also provide fast results, but nowadays health-conscious people prefer alternative treatment methods without chemical substances. In addition, some natural products and natural laxatives stimulate the body to deal better with difficult bowel movements. They take muscle out of the equation to a certain extent. In order to take the right measures against constipation, it is recommended to first understand what causes this condition and recognize the symptoms.
Water and fiber are the key ingredients for regular bowel movements. When these are absent from the diet, digestion slows and leads to constipation. While some foods will help you prevent constipation, others can lead to the condition. Such would be, for example, processed foods, dairy products, white bread and some meat products. In addition, constipation can also be a side effect of some medications. If your doctor prescribes a new medication for you and you are constipated, be sure to talk to them about your symptoms. They may then be able to recommend natural laxatives or prescribe a different medicine for your other health problems.
It’s best to stay in tune with your body and recognize the signs of constipation so you can prevent them before they happen. Most symptoms are characterized by: Having fewer bowel movements than normal Not being able to push out stool Pain with a bowel movement Feeling full or bloated Straining to pass your bowel movement The appearance of bright red blood in your stool or when wiping
Healthy eating and drinking habits are a great way to prevent constipation. If you’re feeling blocked, don’t wait more than two or three days before dealing with it. Your body will tell you it’s uncomfortable, so pay attention. It can be pretty easy to get your gut going without medication. Natural laxatives are definitely a gentler alternative to some of the prescription drugs and you probably already have some in your fridge or pantry.
Nutrition experts agree that it’s important to pee at least three times a week or more. However, the number of bowel movements someone should have per day/week varies from person to person. As such, there is no specific number that is considered completely “normal” and healthy. The goal is that if you’re not currently eating at least that amount, make changes to your diet and lifestyle first. For example, eat more fiber, exercise, and reduce stress to get enough sleep and solve the problem in the long run. Most foods that promote regular bowel movements don’t work immediately, but help to keep them regular over the long term. Here are the best natural laxatives to include in your daily, or at least weekly, diet.
Most adults, as well as children, could afford to consume more fiber and roughage. While increasing your intake of high-fiber foods alone won’t solve all cases of constipation, it’s definitely one of the first steps you should take. But what counts as a high-fiber diet? Most importantly, make sure you aim for between 25 and 40 grams of fiber per day. Adult males or larger individuals require a higher amount than females and smaller individuals. You should always get fiber from natural sources such as unprocessed whole foods whenever possible, as opposed to man-made fiber found in processed bars, shakes, etc. Examples of high-fiber fruits and vegetables include avocados, pears, berries, figs, peas, okra, and Brussels sprouts.