Constipation is one of the most common health conditions related to digestion. According to the statistics, over two million people in the United States alone suffer from constipation. On a global scale, around one in four people face similar issues.
A person having drying or hard bowel movements as well as not passing stool fewer than three times a week. The health condition can happen due to a number of different medical issues and lifestyle factors.
Normally, the colon’s job is to absorb excess water from the food after the essential nutrients are absorbed. Then, the waste material is passed on in the excretion system and converted into a stool.
The stool is passed through the colon in a short period of time but this procedure can be delayed due to a number of reasons. This causes the stool to become hard and dry and hence, becomes very hard to pass.
One of the main factors for having constant constipation is having a poor diet. Currently, the majority of people do not have an adequate amount of dietary fiber in their diet, which is fundamental to prevention malfunction in the excretion system.
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In addition, the major portion of the Western Standard Diet contains foods that can possibly worsen constipation and may even cause chronic digestive disorders. Poor diet is also the reason for an increase in the number of food sensitivities and intolerance.
There are also multiple other causes of having difficulty in passing the stool such as not consuming enough water, changes in lifestyle or diet, frequent traveling, stress, certain medication including high calcium antacids, and being pregnant.
Having constipation can cause multiple issues if medical attention is not sought on time especially if it has reached chronic stages. There are also a number of scientifically proven ways of managing constipation, which are as follows:
Having Kiwi Fruit In Diet
According to research, kiwi fruit is high in a type of fructan known as complex carbohydrate inulin which can significantly help in making the stools softer and easier to pass. Consuming two-three kiwi fruits on a daily basis can, therefore, help with constipation.
Consuming More Fiber
Having a diet rich in fiber can improve overall health as well as cut down the risk of having constipation. Till now, psyllium is believed to be the best fiber for managing constipation.
Drinking More Water
Dehydration is the most common cause of constipation, especially in warmer weather. Lack of water can make bowel movements much harder and painful. Drink at least eight glasses or more to avoid dehydration and constipation.
Adding Prunes To Diet
Prunes are dried plums which contain a complex carbohydrate known as sorbitol. They are known to make bowel movements easier by producing gas and water.
If constipation does not go away even after following all the recommended methods, it is better to consult a doctor as soon as possible as having the condition constantly can often be associated with underlying medical issues such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, IBS, and even stroke.
