Constipation or irregularity, is a condition of the digestive system where a person experiences hard feces that are difficult to pass; it may be extremely painful, and in severe cases lead to symptoms of bowel obstruction. Obstipation refers to severe constipation. Causes of constipation may be dietary, hormonal, a side effect of medications, an illness or disorder, and anatomical.

The normal rhythms of the human body vary from one person to the next. However, when someone complains to a physician about not having a bowel movement at least three times per week, something is not right. If the stools are dry, hard, or painful accompanied by sparse bowel movements, you are definitely constipated.

The main causes of constipation arises from sparse fiber and fluid intake, but can be caused by other things.

Constipation Symptoms

- infrequent bowel movements (typically 3 times per week)

- difficulty during defecation (straining during more than 25% of bowel movements or a subjective sensation of hard stools), or the sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation.

Natural Remedies For Constipation

Most Americans do not get enough fiber in their diets. The best way to stop constipation is to increase your fiber intake. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are the best sources.

Exercise is also good for your bowels. Regular exercise combats constipation by moving food through the bowel faster.

Stay away from chemical laxatives because they can become addictive. You should never take laxatives from a bottle.

Drink more water. Drink eight to ten tall glasses of liquids, this can consist of herb tea, and juice. Do not substitute the above for vodka and white wine. Alcohol, no matter what kind can dehydrate you, making the condition worse.

Caffeinated beverages also fall into the same category. Some people may also become constipated by drinking milk.

Prepare more fiber rich foods. Whole wheat should be the regular bread of the house. Get rid of the white bread. It has no fiber and a lot less nutrients than its whole-wheat counterpart does. Different types of grains and beans should also be consumed. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be eaten on a regular basis. Below is a list of foods that you should try to eat a majority of the time.

Magnesium should be incorporated into the diet. Magnesium is a mineral that can have a laxative effect. Black strap molasses, whole grains, soy, and seafood are all good sources of magnesium.

Foods That Help Constipation

Water, fiber, whole grains, whole-grain bread, wheat bran, fruit, vegetables, legumes, prunes, flaxseed, apple, grape, fig, rhubarb, and honey.

Best Herbs For Constipation

Psyllium Seed – The husks and the seeds themselves are a great source of natural fiber.

Flaxseed – This high fiber agent is also packed with omega-3 essential fatty acids. However, the benefits for constipation are a result of its fiber content. The seeds can be grounded and put into cereals, smoothies, and sprinkled on food.

Papaya – This fruit is a delicious tropical favorite, but it contains an enzyme called proteolytic enzymes, which a makes it a natural digestive aid.

Herbs For Constipation

Cascara Sagrada – The compounds in this bark of the sagrada tree are so strong that one must age it before using it.

Cascara sagrada is a main ingredient in some over-the-counter laxatives.

Senna – This is one of the strongest herbal stimulant laxatives. This herb is so strong that it should only be used under a physicians care.