The “potty problems” are something we all dread. Constipation is painful, it leaves you feeling gassy and bloated and it’s definitely a matter to be concerned about. If you are suffering from constipation from too long and there is bleeding, you should immediately consult a doctor. But following these natural remedies and precautions (tried and tested by my friends and relatives) will help you in the long run to avoid constipation.

1. Increase your fiber intake

There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble. Both can prevent constipation. Soluble fiber has cell walls that retain water within the cellular structures, making waste softer, larger, and thus, easier to pass through your intestines. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to your fecal material. Go for whole-grains, cereals and pastas. Wheat bran can be very effective as a natural laxative.

2. Some helpful foods
Include runes, pears, broccoli, flax seeds, kiwi, carrots, beans, peaches, pineapples and figs in your diet regularly to make things easier. They are packed with vitamins, several minerals and lots of anti-oxidants too. They are packed with fibers and good for your intestines.

3. Avoid these food

Avoid chocolates, dairy products in large quantities, red meat, bananas, and caffeine. Well, caffeine can go either way, depending on whether or not you are dehydrated already. If you are, avoid caffeine.

4. Exercise regularly

Maintain an active lifestyle. Running, jogging, stretching, swimming: any aerobic exercises will keep your digestive track healthy and puts impact on your intestines.

5. Herbal Teas and Warm Drinks

Dandelion tea, senna tea, peppermint tea, green tea, black tea, fennel seed tea, burdock root tea, licorice root tea and clove tea are natural laxatives. Drink these separately or try mixing some of the ingredients together according to your taste, to make your own laxative tea. Sipping warm water throughout the day instead of cold water will also help.

6. Acupressure

Some people say that acupressure also helps in constipation. A point called Large Intestine Four is located at the most elevated spot when the index finger and the thumb are placed close together. Applying pressure here might help.

7. Changes in lifestyle

Lead a healthy lifestyle. Stay hydrated, fix a schedule for your bowel movements, do not ignore the nature calls and limit the use of laxatives.



8. Avoid alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates your body and electrolytes are lost which are essential to retain moisture in your stool. It suppresses intestinal peristalsis and kills the urge to move your bowels. Avoid alcohol strictly if you suffer from constipation.



9. Yoga postures

There are many yoga postures to relieve constipation but surya namaskaar (sun salutation) pose is the best and the most effective one. Performing this exercise, consisting of 12 poses, with synchronized breathing, heals the disorders related to liver, pancreas, indigestion, intestinal problems, and acidity, thus curing constipation.

10. Apply heat and massage

Applying heat to the front of the pelvic area with a warm towel or heating pad may help as well. You can also try massaging your belly, with slight pressure, in a clockwise direction starting at the navel and moving your hands away from the center.



11. Relax in steam baths

Constipation might be a sign of toxicity. Instead of getting passed from the system, toxins get reabsorbed from the wastes. Relaxing in steam baths or having baths in warm water might help to relax the colon, detoxify your system and alleviate the symptoms of constipation.



12. Medicines/Supplements

If any of the above methods are not working for you, many drugs (laxatives) like lactulose or docusate, can help you to relieve chronic constipation but make sure to consult a doctor before starting any such medications.

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