Simple Ways to Deal with Constipation

Are your bowel movements less frequent? If you are, then you are constipated and studies have shown that the causes are the very answers to your problem.

People who do not drink enough water will suffer from constipation because the colon will restrict water that comes out through your stool. The simple solution will be to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily.

Not eating right can also lead to constipation. According to the American Dietetic Association, eating sufficient amounts of fiber helps form soft and bulky stools. It is recommended to get about 20 to 35 grams a day from beans, bran cereals, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

The lack of physical activity causes constipation. This is because exercising decreases the time it takes the food to move through your large intestine. An aerobic exercise is best for about 15 to 20 minutes each day. Just remember to wait for at least an hour before doing any physical activity.

When nature calls, some of us decide to hold it off. This isn't a good idea because this is known to cause hemorrhoids. So when you have to go, head straight for the toilet and let it go.

One cause of constipation which is connected to the others mentioned so far is stress. People often feel this way by not getting enough sleep or are under immense pressure. When this happens, people don't eat right or don't even eat at all. Some will even try to hold it instead of heading to the toilet. The solution to this is to find out what causes the stress and then deal with it.

The bottom line is that constipation can be prevented. If you are experiencing it, don't go to the drug store and buy laxatives because frequent use weakens the bowel muscles. You have to think first and then decide what course of action you should take.

But should you experience constipation for more than 2 weeks, then it is best to visit your doctor as you could be suffering from colon cancer. There are tests available to rule this out so don't panic just yet.