As someone who struggles with chronic constipation, I've become pretty shameless when it comes to talking about poop. Interestingly enough, every other woman I share my bowel movement issues with, winds up admitting that she too struggles with the same. That's because 15 percent of people in the U.S. suffer from constipation and, apparently, it impacts even more women than men. Fortunately, there are ways to combat it and get your poop life healthy and back to normal.
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Sure, a fiber-heavy diet is crucial when it comes to digestion. But the truth is, there are also a lot of remedies (that entail foods and important nutrients like probiotics) that can also help substantially, when it comes to pooping regularly. From aloe vera to ginger, here are a few remedies that will instantly help keep your gut–and poop, of course–in check.
Aloe vera can treat constipation and IBS.
The juice in aloe vera has been used as a natural laxative and digestive ailments for centuries. It also works as a natural anti-inflammatory which can aid in alleviating your digest tract. Try cutting up an aloe vera plant and adding the pulp into a pitcher of water. You can also buy aloe vera water and aloe vera supplement pills at a local health shop.
Castor oil can be used as a natural laxative.
This vegetable oil is also known as a stimulant laxative. But because it’s considered a harsher laxative, doctors suggest only resorting to castor oil for constipation relief occasionally.
Cod liver helps to soften your stools.
It is considered an unsaturated fat and lubricant laxative that can make it easier to make a bowel movement. Once it breaks down in your digestive tract and is absorbed into your bloodstream, it helps to support good nutrition that can essentially help relieve you of constipation.
Figs are great for constipation.
Like a lot of other dried fruits, figs are loaded with fiber which can help soften stools so that they pass smoothly and easily.
Flax seeds is considered a natural medicine.
It’s known to aid with health issues related to the gastrointestinal tract. It’s packed with fiber and omega-3-fatty acids that helps with everything from softening stools to reducing inflammation in the system. Let them soak in a glass of water before drinking or add them to your morning smoothies.
Ginger can help relieve digestive difficulties.
It doesn’t necessarily work to soften stools but it’s anti-inflammatory properties can help sooth your digestive tract as well as reduce bloating and discomfort. Trying having it as a tea.
Coffee can actually help you poop.
While this isn’t the case for everyone, around 30 percent of people find that coffee has a laxative effect on their bowel movements. Apparently it functions to stimulate the distal colon, which essentially works to eliminate waste. In other words, poop. So that morning cafecito might not be such a bad idea.
Lemon water can work wonders.
The high acid content in lemons can help move the bowel in the digestive system. That, combined with water, works so soften and evacuate waste in the body. Try drinking lemon infused water a few times a day.
Chia seeds are an easy life saver.
Like flaxseeds, they are also high in fiber and omega-3-fatty acids that aid in constipation relief. Add them to your oatmeal, smoothies, and cereals. Or make a morning pudding out of them.
Drink more mint tea.
It’s not only good for digestive health but works to treat and prevent constipation.
Pysllium is the constipation reliever you didn’t think to try.
It comes from the husks of the Plantago ovata plant’s seeds and is considered a form of fiber. This natural and bulk-forming laxative works by soaking up all the water in your gut to help soften stools, making it easier for them to pass. It also helps keep the bacteria in your digestive system and colon healthy. Try having it with water or if you find the taste unbearable, try adding it to your teas.
Raisins do the digestive system good.
They are another high-fiber fruit that is known to help both prevent and treat constipation. Have a handful as a snack or add to your morning cereal or oatmeal.
Prunes are a natural laxative.
Prunes not only help to soften stool and increase your fluid intake, but it’s one of those natural laxatives that are easily tolerated by most people. Try having a few a day as a snack. Prune juice is also known to be just as effective.
Eat more papaya.
A lot of people don’t know that this fruit is helpful for constipation. It’s rich in papain, a natural enzyme that makes it easier to digest protein. Try having a papaya smoothie.
Add some turmeric to your life.
While it doesn’t necessarily help with softenening stools or passing bowels, turmeric does contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help support digestion and reduce the bad bacteria in the gut.
Probiotics can ease constipation.
Studies show that taking probiotics on the regular not only helps to balance the bacteria in your gut but the bifiodobacterium found in them also helps in soften stools and passing bowels. It’s recommended to take probiotics daily.
Molasses works like medicine.
According to Reader’s Digest, molasses is loaded with magnesium which helps in relieving constipation. It’s recommended to take one tablespoon of black molasses before bed to help you pass a bowel by morning.
Sesame seeds are an unexpected constipation reliever.
They contain high levels of oil that function to moisturize the intestines which eventually works to soften stools. Try sprinkling them on your meals or salads.
Try the herbal laxative Senna.
The glycosides in Senna leaves works to stimulate the nerves in your gut which eventually leads to easier, more frequent bowel movements. Try having it as a tea.
Bring up your water intake.
It sounds obvious, but not drinking enough water daily can easily lead to constipation. Try drinking at least 2 liters of water a day.
