In this article we are going to tell you about some of the many natural laxatives that are available to us today. Many people suffer from constipation and diarrhea. There are all kinds of prescription and over the counter medications for both conditions. It seems that most doctors do not suggest a holistic approach when treating constipation. Below are some suggestions on a natural laxative for constipation.
Chia Seeds – These little seeds are considered one of nature’s most powerful natural laxatives. Many cultures have used chia seeds for hundreds of years. Now they are available in liquid form and in a powder form to help you add fiber to your diet. Chia seeds act as a natural diuretic helping to flush the bowels often. If you have chronic constipation or other bowel problems, have blood in your stool, have mucus in your stools or have chronic diarrhea you should consult a doctor!
Flax Seed Oil – Another natural laxative. This one cup, one teaspoon capsule can be taken twice daily. There is no need to take more than one cup. The one cup is enough to get the fatty acid benefits of the flax seed oil. This is one of the few foods today that have the ability to increase fiber and intestinal gas production.
Eating healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables and avoiding unhealthy foods are a great way to start treating constipation. Often times eating healthy foods will help with the constipation by helping to move the bowels regularly. Adding a couple of these foods to your daily diet is always a good idea.
Milk, Coffee and Tea – These are the three most common causes of constipation. The milk contains lactose and will cause an increase in intestinal gas. The coffee and tea are all acidic and will cause your stool to be dehydrated and harder. Drinking one glass of water with each meal is recommended to maintain regularity on your diet and your body will thank you.
Water is also important for keeping regularity in bowel movement. Keeping your body hydrated keeps you regular. Flushing your system two or three times a day will help keep you regular as well. Adding lemon to your water will help as well because lemons contain natural laxative properties.
Other natural laxatives include Epsom salts and plain yogurt. Epsom salts stimulate peristaltic waves in your intestines, which helps move waste through. Plain yogurt naturally has calcium, which strengthens your bowels. A supplement that contains extra vitamin D or magnesium is also beneficial. You can eat a daily diet high in dietary fiber and minerals or take supplements that contain them.
Keep in mind that there is no single natural laxative for constipation that is the best. Laxatives work on various problems and are not the only option for relieving constipation. Changing your diet and lifestyle is the best way to relieve and prevent constipation. Adding extra fiber to your diet and drinking at least 8 glasses of water each day will help you. Other ways to alleviate constipation and improving your stool are acupuncture, going to a chiropractor, taking flax seeds, exercise, using enemas, taking herbs and probiotics.
Some other options include taking soluble fiber supplements, such as psyllium and wheat bran. insoluble fiber passes through the digestive tract undigested but does not soften and release waste like the soluble fiber. Because it is harder to digest, soluble fiber passes more slowly through your system and may not completely dissolve in your stool. A study on soluble fiber was conducted by the University of Illinois’ College of Medicine. It found that soluble fiber slows the assimilation of dietary fiber and can cause constipation.
Eating fibrous vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes can have a laxative effect because these foods have natural laxative properties. Also, spicy and oily foods can irritate your lower esophageal sphincter, causing pain and discomfort. Certain types of tea can also have a laxative effect, especially green tea. Taking a short-term rest before bedtime can help sooth your tummy and ease your pain.
Although most people do not need to use natural laxatives, they are often recommended for temporary relief from symptoms. They should only be used occasionally as a last resort, and with caution because some foods, especially those high in fat, can slow down the elimination of waste. Be sure to talk to your doctor before using any of these natural laxatives.
