This is a condition of the digestive system in which somebody experiences tough bowel movements that happen less frequently. Everybody has at one point experienced constipation in their life, and they can attest that it is never a pleasant experience. Although it is not chronic, everyone wants to give anything to get their bowels on track.
Causes of constipation
Low level of fiber in diet
Fibers usually serve as cleaners of the digestive tract. Diets which lack fibers lead to unclean digestive tracts. This will consequently cause accumulation of wastes and food particles which block the passage hence causing constipation.
Physical activity
People who are not active physically, for instance, those bedridden for weeks, are susceptible to constipation because physical activity helps in maintaining metabolism hence the body processes like digestive occur rapidly.
Drugs
Some drugs are known to cause constipation. Drugs such as diuretics, narcotic pain relievers and anti-acids containing aluminum.
Aging
As one grows old, the metabolic rate tends to slow down. This leads to reduces the rate of the functions of your body like digestion hence causing constipation.
Home remedies for constipation
Ginger or mint tea
Research reveals that ginger and mint teas can help in to relieve digestive problems. Methanol which is contained in peppermint has antispasmodic effects that help in relaxing the muscles of the digestive system thus allowing food to move rapidly. Ginger also helps your digestive tract to generate more heat thus speeding up the process through increased metabolism since heat increases metabolic rate.
Lemon water
Citric acid contained in lemon juice aids in stimulating the digestive system as well as flushing out harmful substances like wastes. Taking a glass of lemon juice in the morning or adding lemon to your tea help in treating and preventing constipation. It also makes you drink a lot of water daily which is healthy for your digestive system.
Raisins
Raisins are rich fiber and also contain tartaric acid that helps to loosen your stool. Research also shows that people taking raisins have food go through their tracts faster than those who do not. So it is advisable to include raisins in your food.
Massage
Massaging your abdomen can help to relieve constipation. Massage will stimulate your intestinal muscles which are involved in your bowel movements.
Coffee
This is an excellent stimulant to your body. It helps in solving constipation by increasing metabolism through heat hence speeding up your trips to the toilet. Other hot drinks can also help to achieve this.
These are some of the remedies that you can use at home to curb constipation and ensure your digestive tract is back on track.