### Simple Tips for Easing Constipation in Everyday Life
If you’ve ever been constipated, you know just how uncomfortable it can be. Let’s skip the lecture and jump right into some straightforward, effective tips and habits to help prevent and relieve it.
### 1. Eat More Fruits That Aid Digestion
Fruits like apples, bananas, grapes, dates, peaches, cantaloupe, and pineapple are great for helping with constipation. Incorporate these into your diet as snacks or part of your meals to keep things moving smoothly.
### 2. Use Psyllium Husk (Isabgol)
Psyllium, also known as Isabgol, is a quick and effective solution for constipation. Just be aware that it can cause gas or bloating if you don’t pass stool soon after taking it. So, use it when you can relax and let it do its job.
### 3. Try Tamarind and Prune Syrup
This syrup is another excellent remedy. Soak equal amounts of tamarind and prunes in water overnight. In the morning, remove the tamarind seeds, and add some salt and sugar to taste, then drink it. It’s great for your digestive health.
### 4. Establish Healthy Bathroom Routines
Good bathroom habits are crucial and should start early. Encourage children to visit the toilet every morning after waking up to develop a consistent routine. Mothers and caregivers play a significant role in setting this habit.
### 5. Don’t Delay Bathroom Breaks
Make a habit of going to the toilet every morning, whether before or after breakfast. Drinking a glass of water on an empty stomach can help stimulate a bowel movement. You might also find it helpful to have some tea, read the newspaper, or go for a brisk walk.
### 6. Start with a Balanced Breakfast
What you eat for breakfast can greatly affect your bowel movements. Avoid extremes like skipping breakfast or eating too heavily. Opt for a balanced meal like buttered toast, porridge, eggs, warm milk, or a small mixed fruit and veggie salad. If you have joint pain along with constipation, try having your tea or coffee three hours after breakfast instead.
### 7. Make Smart Lunch Choices
For lunch, include foods that promote intestinal movement. Salads with crunchy vegetables like carrots, radishes, cucumbers, and cabbage are excellent choices. Avoid drinking ice-cold water immediately after meals as it can slow digestion by solidifying fats in the intestines.
### 8. Dinner for Healthy Digestion
Include ingredients in your dinner that aid digestion. For instance, adding garlic when cooking meat can help your gut. Also, focus on veggies and fruits rich in cellulose, which add bulk to your stool, making it easier to pass.
### 9. Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is key to managing constipation. Start your day with 3-4 glasses of water on an empty stomach. This habit supports digestion and helps regulate blood pressure. But don’t force yourself to drink if you’re not thirsty, as overhydration can upset your stomach.
### 10. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity is essential for a healthy digestive system. Activities like running, swimming, walking, or daily exercise can help prevent constipation. Try incorporating brisk morning walks and deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing improves oxygen flow, including to your large intestine, which helps keep waste from hardening and eases stool passage.
By making these dietary adjustments, staying hydrated, exercising, and maintaining consistent bathroom habits, you can significantly reduce constipation issues. Often, these simple and consistent lifestyle changes are the most effective solutions!