Constipation can afflict anyone – young or old. Constipation is one of the most common illnesses.

Constipation occurs when the body does not defecate on a regular basis and can result in bloating, pain, and can lead to more serious illnesses. Different people have different cycles – for some, it is normal to defecate 2-3 times a day, for some 1 time a day, and for others, the norm is 2-3 times a week.

The Best Remedy for Constipation

The best constipation remedy is a healthy lifestyle – complete with a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine. A healthy diet should consist of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, and foods that are high in fiber. Always chew your food slowly and be sure it is chewed well before swallowing – this helps in the digestive process. Here are some things you can do to help prevent constipation:

• Eat foods that are high in fiber content – raisins, salads, whole-grain bread, bran cereals, raw vegetables and fresh fruits, such as figs and prunes. Flax meal is also a great source of fiber.

• Oatmeal, dried beans, barley, and applesauce should be eaten to help soften the stool.

• Liquids – eight ounces of liquids each day are essential to keeping your body properly hydrated. Water is the most highly recommended form of liquid. By keeping your body properly hydrated, you are allowing your digestive system to work properly and have less chance of becoming constipated.

• In the mornings, drink several cups of a warm liquid, such as warm water or herbal tea.

How Exercise Can Prevent Constipation

A regular exercise is essential for a healthy life. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. Exercises that focus on the abdominal region are great for helping the body continually perform it’s natural tasks – and can help to prevent constipation by keeping the muscles of the large and small intestines working properly. Many times, constipation afflicts the aged and invalids because of poor muscle tone in the intestines due to lack of exercise. If you are able to exercise, you should plan an exercise routine that is appropriate for your age and ability and that is easy to maintain. Along with a healthy diet, this is the most natural constipation remedy.

Other Constipation Remedies

Anyone can suffer from constipation – at any time. The most important thing is a healthy diet and exercise – taking care of your digestive system and giving it every opportunity to work correctly. Still, you may find yourself afflicted with constipation. Before you run out and buy laxatives or other constipation remedies, be sure to check with your physician to be sure that you are actually suffering from constipation.

Many physicians will recommend medications for more severe cases. Before you begin taking any medications, be sure you discuss them with your doctor and learn of potential side effects and possible interactions with other medications. Constipation itself is sometimes a side effect of medications.

Here are a few more constipation remedies, some will help you to avoid constipation and some will help you once the symptoms are present:

• Don’t ignore the urge – your body lets you know when you need to defecate. Many times constipation is the result of not going when you body tells you that it is time to go.

• Drink fluids – constipation can be the result of not keeping your body hydrated. It is important to drink plenty of fluids daily and avoid dehydration.

• Diet – eat a variety of foods that include fresh vegetables, fiber-rich foods, and fresh fruits.

• Avoid foods that can cause constipation – dairy foods such as milk and cheese, foods that cause gas such as dry beans, cabbage, and cauliflower, fried foods, and red meat.

• Aloe Vera Juice – taken twice a day, this can help to heal and clean the digestive system so that it works smoother.

• Folic Acid – lack of folic acid in your body can cause constipation.

• Corn Syrup – this is a great way to relieve the symptoms of constipation in babies – a tablespoon can be added to an 8 oz. Bottle.

• Sugar – sugar found naturally, such as in honey, can be added to a glass of milk or water to help relieve the symptoms of constipation.