What To Take For Constipation

Wondering what to take for constipation? This condition usually occurs because of a combination of lifestyle factors.

According to Steady Health, a person is said to be constipated if two or more of the following are present for at least 3 months with the onset of symptom at least 6 months prior to the diagnosis:

• Straining more than 25% of the time during bowel movement
• Hard stools more than 25% of the time
• Incomplete evacuation more than 25% of the time during bowel movements
• Less than 3 bowel movements per week
• Sensation of anorectal obstruction more than 25% of bowel movements
• Manual evacuations to facilitate more than 25% of bowel movements

This definition provides criteria for functional constipation. Functional constipation is constipation without any underlying cause. Constipation can also occur due to a variety of underlying causes including inadequate dietary fiber, structural abnormalities, medical conditions and medications. This group of constipation is called secondary constipation.

Source: Steady Health

So if you find yourself exhibiting the symptoms mentioned above, then perhaps, you are suffering from constipation. Don’t fret if you do, because once you get to read the list below, you will no longer need to worry so much about what to take for constipation.

According to an article published in Livestrong, you must take the following:

Eat Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables help lubricate the intestinal tract. This moves things along through your digestive system. The more fruits and vegetables you consume, the better. Do not eat them slathered in butter, mayonnaise or cheese. This will negate their constipation-fighting qualities.

Drink Water

Water keeps things flowing through your digestive tract. The more water you drink, the easier it is for your body to digest food. Drink at least 64 oz. of water every day. Do not replace water with soda, coffee or any other liquid.

Eat Fiber

Fiber scrubs the inside of your digestive tract as it moves through your body. This helps clean you out. Foods high in fiber include oatmeal, bran, nuts, soy and whole-wheat products.

Eat Certain Dairy Products

Yogurt is excellent for avoiding constipation. Bacteria cultures in the yogurt help break down food and assist in the digestive process. Other dairy products, such as cheese and whole milk, actually cause constipation in many people. Avoid them.

And, make sure that you also avoid the following as they are the primary foods that can cause constipation:

Avoid Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages can cause constipation. Adult men should have no more than two alcoholic drinks per day. Adult women should have no more than one.

Avoid Refined Baking Products

Any food that contains baking soda or baking powder can cause constipation. Also avoid foods containing white flour, white sugar, white rice and yeasted bread. Choose foods made with whole grains, brown rice and honey.

Source: Livestrong

So make sure that you remember the foods that you need to take when you are suffering from constipation and the foods that you will certainly avoid. Keeping this information in mind will save you the pain and inconvenience of being constipated.

What To Take For Constipation is a post from: Natural Health Magazine