Ways To Prevent Constipation

Constipation is a common problem that is often left neglected until it becomes painful or causes other problems like hemorrhoids and bleeding. In most cases however, constipation is harmless and does not have a serious underlying cause. Such cases of constipation can easily be prevented. Here are some ways to prevent constipation:

Lead a Healthy Lifestyle

Constipation affects more people now than it did earlier due to drastic changes in life and diet. Stress and lack of sleep can bring many problems, some of which can be life threatening. By getting adequate sleep and physical activity, the body can function efficiently and get rid of toxins easily.

Eat Fiber Rich Food

Fiber makes stool heavier, making it easy for the colon to expel it. Lack of fiber causes stool to become dense and hard. This may hurt the lining of the colon and the rectum. Over some time, the blood vessels in the anal area can rupture and start bleeding. Food that is low in fiber also moves slowly along the colon. This makes the stomach feel heavy and bloated. Fiber can be effective only if plenty of water is consumed or can block the colon.

Food that you can consume should include vegetables and fruits, particularly papaya and guava. Daily consumption of spinach can keep constipation at bay. Flax seeds and barley are excellent sources of fiber. They have to be taken daily.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates the body. The loss of water means the colon does not have much to absorb to make stools softer. This causes constipation.

Cleanse The Colon When Needed

Colon cleansing is an effective way to prevent constipation. Digested food may be blocked in the colon due to muscular spasms and loss of function. This causes distension and blocking. The use of colon cleansing products helps the colon get rid of the waste easily.

Do Not Overuse Laxatives

Laxatives can make the body dependent on them for excretion. When on laxatives, an individual need not put in much effort to empty the bowels. If this becomes a habit, the muscles lose the ability to expel stool properly in the absence of the medication. This causes buildup in the colon and constipation.

Don’t Control The Urge To Defecate Unless Necessary

Sometimes, it is required to control the urge to pass stool. However, if this becomes a regular activity, the waste accumulates and leads to a buildup of toxins, which can cause septicemia and eventually death. Bowels have to be emptied frequently, whenever there is an urge.

Food To Avoid When Constipated

Red meat and rice are two food categories that can makes constipation worse. Hence, these have to be avoided. Whole grain is a substitute to rice as it is fiber rich. Any food that can take long to digest, like milk, can worsen the problem.

Constipation is not a separate condition. It is a symptom of many disorders, some of which could be life threatening. A healthy life style and diet reduces the chances of these disorders and consequently constipation.