Natural Constipation Remedies

Constipation can be embarrassing to talk about, but millions of people are affected by this often painful and unpleasant condition every year. Most people immediately turn to over-the-counter remedies such as laxatives, but research shows that there are many herbal and homeopathic constipation remedies available today that are safer and healthier for your body. It is important to first understand what causes constipation in order to evaluate the best ways to both prevent and cure this condition.

While there are many possible reasons a person can become constipated, some of the most common causes are related to diet and exercise. Not drinking enough water or getting enough fiber in your diet is often enough to cause constipation. Other causes include stress, depression, eating disorders, eating too much dairy, and lack of exercise. It is important to note that while rare, more serious health issues can lead to constipation as well, such as colon cancer or irritable bowel syndrome. Pregnancy in women is also a leading cause of constipation.

So now that we understand what might be causing constipation, the question becomes: how do we stop it? The surprising truth is that many over-the-counter constipation remedies such as laxatives, can actually be a leading cause of constipation when overused. After taking laxatives, your body can become dependent on them in order to have a bowel movement, and after a while, it may take more and more laxatives to have the desired effect.

Safe alternatives to over-the-counter laxatives are natural herbs that can stimulate the natural urge without forming a dependency the way that some laxatives can. Herbs such as Dandelion, Passiflora, Cascara, Senna, and Psyllium have natural, mild laxative properties. Herbal constipation remedies on the market today are safe and can naturally restore balance and regularity to your body without the harmful effects of some over-the-counter and prescription medicines.

Along with the use of these natural herbal remedies, it is important to drink lots of water and to add more fiber to your diet. Fruits and vegetables as well as fiber-rich cereals and breads are important to maintaining a healthy body and preventing future constipation. Frequent exercise combined with a healthy diet and a regular regimen of vitamins and natural herbal remedies can help keep your digestive system healthy.

Constipation can be painful and is often embarrassing to discuss, but it is a problem that cannot be ignored. If you have infrequent or difficult bowel movements, are often straining to pass a stool, or regularly have less than two bowel movements in a week, then chances are you suffer from constipation. Rather than turning to over-the-counter laxatives or medications which can, over time, contribute to the problem, it is important to take your health into your own hands and try out these natural and fast constipation remedies. Herbal supplements, vitamins, exercise, water and a diet that is high in fiber will help relieve constipation quickly and safely.