The need for relieving constipation is based on two very important reasons:
You need to relieve constipation because if you don't your body gets toxic. You need to do it because not relieving constipation worsens the constipation. Remember, Prevention is the key here.
drink plenty of water (good quality water: filtered with mineral content, artesian or at least spring water) regular exercise is very crucial in preventing constipation. Regular body movements equal regular bowel movements. Also, Yoga and acupuncture are great for preventing constipation. try to get healthy fiber, vegetables and fruits in your diet. If prevention did not work or you simply can't wait and you are ready for a faster way of relieving constipation:
Place some prunes in a cup. Boil water and let it cool to lukewarm temperature. Then pour the water over the prunes until fully covered with water. Don't forget to cover the cup with a plate. Let it stand over-night and drink the liquid in the morning. The liquid will still be effective and much less irritating than eating prunes. But start with a small amount and see how much you would need for a full effect. Some patients were very successful in relieving constipation by drinking a full glass of water first thing in the morning followed by a tablespoonful of extra-virgin olive oil 15 minutes later. Follow with your breakfast about 20 minutes later with some hot tea. Some organic or health food stores have prunes with senna spreads that can be very effective in relieving constipation. But even though senna is a very natural leaf, it is like any other laxative in a sense that it can cause dependence. You can use it occasionally, but don't make it your go-to medication for relieving constipation. It's not meant for chronic use. Try natural bulk laxative (insoluble fiber) like a great quality psyllium containing product. Lots of patients told me that they already tried Metamucil and it did not really work... But the common mistake in taking these products was not drinking enough water with them. It's possible to get the opposite effect from a bulk laxative if you don't drink enough water with it. Metamucil and other over the counter bulk laxatives are full of artificial ingredients, colors and flavors. It's probably OK to use temporarily but I would definitely start with a natural or organic brand of psyllium. You can find this product in many organic and health food stores. Drink plenty of water with it! It takes some time to work, especially if you are very constipated. Continuous use of psyllium makes you regular and cleaner inside. -I am not a fan of mineral oil in any way. It can cause aspiration pneumonia upon accidental inhalation. That's why it is especially dangerous for small children
-Digestive enzymes are especially important for patients with digestive disorders. They help break down hard to digest proteins and carbohydrates. They won't be effective for immediate relief but they will help digest food better and promote a healthy bowel movement. Look for good quality digestive enzymes. It makes a difference.
-Good quality probiotics play a big role in gastro-intestinal health. They maintain the balance of the flora in the GI tract which will keep you regular. But keep in mind that this is not a fast acting approach to becoming regular.
Over the counter products:
Colace is the first recommended step in relieving constipation. It's a stool softener. It may cause some cramping. It's moderately effective for chronic constipation.
-Glycerin suppositories and Milk Of Magnesia are effective for relieving constipation fast. But remember they are laxatives and left only for last resort.
-Enemas are very effective in relieving constipation. The classic and effective brand of Fleet with saline solution is mostly recommended by pharmacists. Remember, this is only for occasional relief of constipation.
-As a last resort, there's an over the counter product called Dulcolax (bisacodyl). It's a laxative that works as an irritant in relieving constipation. It irritates the colon and forces it to empty out the bowel contents. Bisacodyl can cause discomfort, bloating and cramping but it is effective and definitely not recommended as a first line agent. Please, make sure you do everything possible before taking bisacodyl or senna for chronic use.
I wish you well!
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