Constipation can be quite the predicament – it can strike anytime, anywhere. What’s more, it’s a common condition that affects many people in our society. Our unhealthy diets contribute to increased levels of constipation because they lack fiber and other healthy elements. If you’re constipated, it means you can’t pass a bowel movement, or you may only be able to do so partially. On the bright side, it’s easy to increase the frequency of bowel movements by making small changes to your diet. Here are ten treatments for constipation.

Fiber

Without a doubt, the best and most traditional way to increase bowel movements and reduce constipation is by eating fiber – and lots of it. Fiber is important because it moves the contents of your digestive system, acting like a mop for your stomach. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, making it easy for your digestive system to pass stools. There are plenty of fiber-rich foods, such as leafy greens, whole-grain cereal, and certain nuts. You can also take fiber supplements if you feel that you don’t get enough fiber. It is recommended to consume around 20 to 25 grams of fiber per day to keep your digestive system moving.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a delicious and healthy way to improve the health of your digestive system. Olive oil is packed with nutrients and minerals that can boost your overall health, especially when it comes to your digestive system. Olive oil works by lubricating the insides of your intestines, thus reducing constipation. Olive oil is also versatile, meaning that you can use it as a salad dressing, or you can mix it in with other products. Don’t get scared by olive oil: in fact, it’s a very healthy fat that contributes to a wholesome lifestyle. Many dieticians recommend daily consumption of olive oil.

Lemons

One of the best ways to stimulate digestion and smooth bowel movements is to drink more lemon juice. Lemons contain a substance known as citric acid, which foments the removal of toxins from your digestive system. It also activates metabolism, helping you go to the bathroom more often, and it can even contribute to weight loss. To use lemons for constipation, squeeze the juice of a whole lemon into a large jug. Add water (cold or warm) and mix. Drink the liquid three times a day, or when necessary. Lemons are also rich in other vitamins, making them good for the immune system.

Mint Tea

Many herbal remedies are useful for constipation, but few are as efficient as mint tea. Similar herbs, such as ginger and peppermint, are also renowned for their natural properties that help promote healthy digestion. One of the most potent chemicals that fight against constipation is menthol, which has antiplasmodial effects that relax the muscles along the digestive system. On a ginger, it warms the surrounding parts of the digestive system, helping to speed up the digestive process. When consumed as tea, these herbs make for a quick and healthy way to treat constipation.

Molasses

Molasses is one of the most effective remedies for constipation, even though it is not well known among the general population. Specifically, blackstrap molasses is the best type of molasses you want to use for constipation. The way it’s made holds the key to its surprising effects on constipation. It contains high amounts of magnesium, as well as plenty of other vitamins and minerals, which work together to promote healthy bowel movements. You shouldn’t consume regular molasses, as this doesn’t go through the same production process as blackstrap molasses. So the next time you feel constipated, don’t disregard molasses as a cure for your constipation.

Exercise

Regular exercise is one of the most important improvements you can make for your health. Increased exercise is also good for the digestive system because it promotes healthy and frequent bowel movements. Even though scientists can’t quite put their finger on why exercise is good for bowel health, it is thought that it increases the strength of the muscles found in your digestive system, which in turn helps push the content in your stomach with more ease. You should perform regular physical exercise around three times per week. Remember to consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Flaxseed Oil

One of the easiest ways to increase the frequency of your bowel movements, as well as their smoothness, is to incorporate flaxseed oil into your diet. This simple home remedy is great for fighting constipation, because it coats the inside of your digestive system, helping the contents of your stomach move faster and easier. One of the best ways to consume flaxseed oil is to mix it with juice, or by drinking it by itself (although the taste may be unpleasant). You can also make salad dressings with flaxseed oil, or mix it into your morning or post-workout smoothie.

Aloe Vera

This green plant is a useful remedy for constipation. Aloe Vera is a powerful laxative, so it gets the contents of your stomach moving. That’s why it’s important not to consume more than two tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel. It’s important to know that fresh aloe vera gel is much more powerful than store-bought aloe vera gel. Aloe Vera has plenty of other uses: it can be used after sunning, reducing the pain from sunburn, and it can be used to treat bug bites. That’s what makes Aloe Vera one of the most versatile health products out there.

Baking Soda

Surprisingly, baking soda can be a great way to stimulate bowel movements. Baking soda is a multi-use product, and it can also be utilized as a digestive aid. If you’re experiencing an upset stomach, you can use baking soda to feel better. It also encourages air to come out of your belly, helping to reduce bloating and gas. Another benefit is its alkalizing properties, which neutralize the acids in the stomach making heartburn less likely. And best of all, baking soda is affordable, making it a hit amongst people who often suffer from constipation.

Coffee

Not only does coffee boost your energy levels, but it also speeds up your metabolism, making it a convenient remedy for constipation. In fact, many people drink a cup of black coffee each morning to give their digestive system a wake-up call. Coffee stimulates the colon and makes it easier to have bowel movements. Moreover, if you drink espresso, the effects can be amplified, making coffee ideal for situations in which you really need to use the bathroom. But be careful: coffee can also make you feel dehydrated, so make sure to drink plenty of water.