Natural Solutions for Constipation Relief

What is Constipation?

Constipation is typically defined as having infrequent bowel movements with stools that are typically hard, dry and difficult to eliminate. Essentially, if your bowel movements occur less frequently than your food intake, you are suffering from constipation. While many factors can lead to the development of constipation, the following are some of the most common:

• Diet. Because a diet that consists of too many refined sugars, starches and processed foods can lead to constipation, eating plenty of high-fiber foods that are low in fat and sugar is an important part of maintaining healthy bowel movements.
• Lack of exercise. Exercise triggers the lymphatic flow that helps stimulate peristalsis – the wave-like motions that move food through the intestines and help ease elimination.
• Changes in routine. Changes in normal daily activity can often throw off your internal schedule. This in turn can affect your bowel movements and lead to constipation.
• Lack of time. Although taking the time to eliminate regularly is an important part of good bowel health, many people don’t take the time to do so. Try to set aside time in your day to go to the bathroom, even it means setting the alarm a bit earlier!

Three Step Process

Fortunately, a simple, 3-step process exists to help relieve occasional constipation and promote 2 to 3 healthy bowel movements each day (the amount recommended by many natural health practitioners). It includes:

1. Hydration: Properly hydrating the colon promotes regular peristalsis, so drinking plenty of water is essential. You may also use hydrating minerals such as magnesium hydroxide and gentle (laxative) herbs such as cape aloe and rhubarb to assist with natural bowel movements.


2. Bulk: A healthy colon requires bulk in order to eliminate regularly, and a high-fiber can help provide that bulk. Consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds can help boost your fiber intake, and fiber supplements can also be beneficial.


3. Lubrication: To achieve a healthy elimination schedule, it is critical to keep the colon lubricated. Beneficial oils such as fish oil, flax oil and borage oil can help provide the necessary lubrication for smooth and gentle elimination.

Incorporating this easy-to-follow formula into your daily routine is a natural, effective way to help provide the relief you need.