Relief for Constipation
Natural Foods are Effective Cures for Constipation
Certain foods can offer relief for constipation and the uncomfortable feeling that goes along with it. Constipation is a condition in which a person's bowels don't release stools from the body as regularly as they should. The frequency for bowel movements can vary from one person to another. Some people have bowel movements every day. Others may have them only a few times a week.
A person should have bowel movements at least three times every week. Anyone who has fewer bowel movements than that is constipated. Another symptom of constipation is frequently having very hard stools, straining in order to eliminate stools, and not having at least one bowel movement every three days. Natural constipation cures can help ease these symptoms.
Foods for Constipation
A diet that consists of at least one fiber rich food can help bring relief for constipation symptoms. Eating fiber is a good way to soften the stools. This will make it easier for the body to remove them. A person can get fiber by eating whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Grapes are good constipation cures because they provide the body with cellulose, and natural sugar. Together, these properties act as a natural laxative.
Oranges are foods for constipation because they help keep the bowels functioning properly. They stop excess waste from building up in the colon. To get the maximum benefits from oranges, eat one at bed time and another one first thing in the morning. Do this every day to keep bowel movements regular.
According to the American Dietetic Association, most adults need about 35 grams of fiber every day in order for fiber to be an effective cure for constipation. The fiber from foods becomes a soft gel like substance, once it reaches the intestines. This soft substance prevents the stools from becoming hard, which makes them easier for the body to eliminate.
Benefits of Magnesium
Magnesium is another natural cure for constipation. This mineral helps the intestinal muscles function properly. Numerous studies indicate that magnesium can relieve constipation symptoms. Magnesium foods include green leafy vegetables, whole grains, and beans. Other magnesium constipation foods are nuts, bananas, and raisins. According to the National Institutes of Health, women need 310 mg, and men need 400 mg of magnesium daily.
A study published in the May 19, 1987 issue of the journal PubMed, looked at the effects that magnesium had on elderly patients who were constipated. The study found that magnesium hydroxide was more effective as a treatment for constipation than a bulk-laxative. Most patients had results in a matter of weeks.
Water as a Treatment for Constipation
Water is one of the most natural treatments for constipation. According to the National Institutes of Health, water increases the amount of fluid in the colon and adds density to the stools making them easier for the body to eliminate. It is recommended that a person who is constipated limit his or her intake of drinks containing caffeine and carbonation because they can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause constipation.
Another dietary change that can alleviate is to avoid eating foods that can cause the stools to become hard. Foods that are made out of flour such as rice, and bread can cause a person to become constipated. Other foods that can lead to hard stool include hard boiled eggs, and sweets.
Relief for Constipation
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