Constipation Relief

Published: September 1, 2009

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If you become constipated, first see your doctor to rule out a more serious problem. If test results show no disease or blockage, and if your doctor approves, there are a few remedies you can try, including:

* Increasing fiber in your diet
* Drinking plenty of fluids
* Adding bran to your food
* Lifestyle changes.

Increasing Fiber

You can increase fiber by eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, either cooked or raw, and more whole-grain cereals and breads. Dried fruit such as apricots, prunes, and figs are especially high in fiber.

Drinking Fluids

Drink plenty of liquids (1 to 2 quarts daily), unless you have heart, blood vessel, or kidney problems. (But keep in mind that some people can become constipated from drinking large amounts of milk.)

Adding Bran to Your Food

Some doctors suggest adding small amounts of unprocessed bran (“miller’s bran”) to baked goods, cereals, and fruit. Some people suffer from bloating and gas for several weeks after adding bran to their diets. So, make diet changes slowly to allow your digestive system to adapt.

Remember, if your diet is well balanced and contains a variety of foods high in natural fiber, it may not be necessary to add bran to other foods.

Making Lifestyle Changes

Constipation Information
Remedy for Constipation
About Constipation
Causes of Constipation
Foods That Cause Constipation
Symptoms of Constipation
Diagnosing Constipation
Constipation Relief
Constipation in Children
Constipation in the Elderly
Constipation Treatment

Besides diet changes, making a few lifestyle changes can also give you relief from constipation. It’s important to engage in daily exercise and reserve enough time to have a bowel movement. In addition, the urge to have a bowel movement should not be ignored.

Relieving Constipation: Summary

Do not expect to have a bowel movement every day or even every other day. Remember, being regular is different for each person. If your bowel movements are usually painless and occur regularly (whether 2 times a day or 3 times a week), you are probably not constipated.

If you still have concerns about constipation, check with your doctor to find out what you should do.

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