Home remedies for constipation

Dried fruits

People with constipation suffer greatly from irregular bowel movements. But we do not always have to resort to medications - for example, there are also laxative foods. We have compiled some home remedies that stimulate digestion naturally. Almost everyone deals with this intestinal problem at some point in their life. One of them is what is called constipation. Constipation occurs when the bowel empties less than usual and stool is difficult to pass. This can be accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating or flatulence and can be caused by various causes such as unfamiliar foods, pregnancy or stress.

If possible, laxatives should only be used as a last resort for constipation. A healthy, high-fiber diet is the best way to counter sluggish bowels and encourage bowel movements.

At the first signs of constipation, it is not yet necessary to resort to laxatives from the pharmacy. There are some home remedies and laxative foods that effectively prevent constipation and also have a laxative effect.

A well-known home remedy is prunes. You can either soak them in water overnight or eat the plums dry, but then drink them with a glass of water. Dried figs or apple rings are also suitable. These foods have a rapid laxative effect.

Castor oil comes in liquid or capsule form and can be found in pharmacies and some health food stores. It works almost like a laxative. Take one or two tablespoons of it on an empty stomach and you will notice how quickly your intestines move. High quality olive oil and linseed oil can also be used. The oil has a laxative effect because it aims to make the intestines softer. This allows better bowel movement.

These grains are a laxative food. Flea seeds have the property of swelling. Therefore, adequate water should always be consumed so that it swells the digestive system and thus increases the intestinal contents. In addition, the seeds support digestive bacteria in the intestines. So it has a double effect on the intestines. Flax seeds also have a plumping effect. The seeds also contain linseed oil which supports intestinal passage. Pre-ground flax seeds can be soaked in water and then drunk with two cups of lukewarm water.

Both grapes and watermelon are laxative foods. With both fruits, it is important to purchase and eat seeded varieties. Grains contain important minerals for the body. When it comes to watermelon, it is also important not to eat it after meals, but to eat it separately. Otherwise the effect will be reduced.

Fiber is essential for regular digestion. They bulk up stool and provide food for healthy gut bacteria – making them the perfect laxative foods. Dietary fiber is mainly found in healthy foods. So eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. On the other hand, avoid constipation with foods such as bananas, chocolate, and white flour products.

Vinegar helps your body prevent constipation. Apple cider vinegar works best in the morning before breakfast. To do this, dilute 250 ml of water with 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar. If you like, you can also add a teaspoon of honey to neutralize the taste.

The spices and spices in chili peppers are beneficial for the entire body. Fresh chili peppers or chili peppers are among the laxative foods. Spices not only stimulate digestion, but also have an antiseptic effect.

Eating two cups of kiwi a day helps get rid of constipation! The fruits are high in fiber, which supports digestion.

Drink a cup of curd on an empty stomach in the morning. This prepares your stomach for the day and stimulates bowel movements.

Sauerkraut helps the intestines gently cleanse itself. You can eat sauerkraut or drink sauerkraut juice from a cup.

A cup of coffee can also stimulate digestion, partly because it contains caffeine, and thus helps treat constipation. However, do not overdo it as too much coffee can also lead to diarrhea.

Sports not only keep the body fit and healthy, but also keep the intestines healthy. Do 20 to 30 minutes of exercise every day to prevent your stomach from slowing down. Walking after eating works wonders and can help you lose weight.

Adequate hydration is important for your intestines to function optimally. Otherwise your stool will become hard and tight and this will lead to constipation. So make sure to drink at least two liters of water daily. The more liquid it is in the body, the easier it is to digest. Also, drink a glass of lukewarm water on an empty stomach in the morning to start the digestion process. Fruit juices, such as prune, pear, and pineapple juice, are also suitable alternatives to laxatives. However, with prune juice, you should limit yourself to one cup, otherwise there is a risk of diarrhea.

Not only does an abdominal massage feel nice on the skin, but it also helps stimulate digestion. With a little warm oil on the hands, the stomach is massaged clockwise for a few minutes. This method works best if you use it before waking up.

Since stress is also the cause of constipation in many cases, it can also help to incorporate more relaxation and comfort into daily life. Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation exercises are good options.

As a general rule, the sweeter and fatter you eat, the greater your risk of constipation as digestion slows down. So you should only enjoy these foods in moderation or avoid them altogether: white flour products such as bread, cake or pasta, chocolate, cocoa, red meat, eggs, cheese, white rice, cooked carrots, potato chips and ready meals.

A permanent change in bowel habits or unusual constipation that does not go away after a short time should be examined by a specialist. If you also have signs such as blood in your stool or symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and pain, you should also see a doctor. Chronic bowel diseases, hormonal disorders or other diseases can be behind the symptoms.