If you are looking for a safe and effective constipation treatment that doesn’t involve dangerous, addictive laxatives, there are quite a few options available. But, first you must ensure that your body is otherwise healthy.
Checking with a Doctor
The vast majority of people who suffer from constipation simply go to the drug store and buy a laxative from over the counter. However, there is a very real problem in seeking this type of constipation treatment.
Laxatives can cause inflammation in your intestines from overstimulation and because they speed the passage of waste through the intestines, other medications you are taking won’t be properly absorbed. Top it off with the fact that if you take laxatives too often, they can be highly habit forming and you have a solution that looks much less attractive.
So, if you have chronic constipation and are worried that it might be a health issue, you should see your doctor instead of self-medicating. They can perform basic tests or check your medical and pharmaceutical history to check for possible issues.
If nothing shows up, however, and your constipation problem is only worsening, now may be the time to seek constipation treatment that is natural and safe.
Constipation Treatment Options
There are two types of treatments for constipation – the first is reactive. This includes laxatives that stimulate your bowels into releasing and once again, they can be dangerous if used too often or with the wrong medications already in your body.
The second is proactive. Proactive constipation treatments include things like diet and exercise – key lifestyle changes you can make that will have an immediate impact on how your body processes and releases waste. These are the treatment methods we should look more carefully at because they last longer and are more effective overall.
• Eating Whole Foods – When eating vegetables and fruits, eat whole foods that have all of their nutrients and fiber intact. An orange for example, has 3000% more fiber than orange juice and it tastes just as good.
• More Fiber and Water – Fiber adds bulk to stool and keeps it from drying out, but only with water in your diet. Make sure you eat at least 100% of your daily recommended dose of dietary fiber and at least 8 cups of water to supplement that fiber and keep your stools regular.
• Less Salt – Too much salt in your diet dehydrates you and has a number of heart related side effects as well. Watch your salt intake and supplement with enough water to avoid dehydration.
• Daily Exercise – Daily exercise is a must to keep your bowel movements regular. It stimulates nerve endings and muscles and is generally very good for your health.
If you want to stay healthy and avoid the long term health problems that constipation portends, the above lifestyle changes are vital. Just be sure to take them to heart and implement them carefully to avoid problems that might make the situation worse. And of course, if you feel your constipation isn’t improving and is worsening, you should see a doctor.