Okay ladies, let’s talk regularity. No, I’m not talking about your period, I’m talking about constipation.
It’s an uncomfortable topic that nobody likes to talk about, but it’s important, so somebody has to bring it up!
Let’s talk about some common causes of constipation and ways that you can prevent and treat it.
What Causes Constipation
Constipation occurs when your intestines absorb too much water and your stool gets too firm and dry to easily pass through your intestines. There are a variety of different things that can cause this.
Certain medications such as:
- Antacids
- Anticholinergics and antispasmodics (these treat intestinal muscle spasms)
- Diuretics
- Iron supplements
- Narcotics
Also:
- Changes in your routine (such as travelling)
- Decreased physical activity
- Dehydration
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Low fiber diet
How to Naturally Treat Constipation
There are a lot of different treatments for constipation, but before choosing one, it’s best to consult with your doctor if you’re looking into treatment that goes beyond a simple diet and exercise change.
Diet
It’s very important that you stay hydrated (eight to twelve full glasses of water each day) and that your diet contains enough fiber in it.
Getting more water is easy, but adding fiber can be more difficult. Below are some foods that are high in fiber:
- Almonds and pistachio nuts
- Artichokes
- Beans (black, lima)
- Bran flakes
- Broccoli
- Brown rice
- Fiber One snacks (my favorite is the Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bar!)
- Green peas
- Lentils
- Oatmeal
- Prunes and prune juice
- Raspberries
- Whole wheat pasta
- Here are 10 weight loss conducive foods that are super high in fiber
Laxatives 101
Laxatives are compounds that can either be taken orally or inserted rectally to help move things along. There are a lot of different types of laxatives on the market, and they each work in different ways.
Fiber Supplements
These laxatives can be taken every day and they help soften the stool for easier passage. These are safe to use regularly, though they can cause some bloating and cramping. Make sure to drink a lot of water when taking these.
Lubricant Laxatives and Enemas
These help coat the stool to lubricate them so that they can pass through the intestines more easily.
Osmotic Laxatives
These help fluids move through the intestines to prevent the stool from getting too dry and impairing its ability to move through the colon.
Stimulant Laxatives
Stimulant laxatives induce intestinal muscle contractions to move the stool through the colon. Skinny Teatox evening tea is a 100% natural and mild laxative which uses the herb Senna to gently stimulate the colon which helps with constipation.
Constipation is a pain in the butt (see what I did there?), but you can prevent and treat it fairly easily and painlessly on a regular basis. Make sure to stay active and hydrated and ensure that you’re consuming enough fiber each day and it should all be smooth sailing!
By: Kayla Harwick
