Natural Remedies vs. Medication: What Works for Constipation?

Drinking plenty of water and eating fiber-rich food are two effective home remedies for constipation relief, however if regular bowel movements become problematic then taking an over-the-counter laxative or using an enema may also help.

If over-the-counter remedies aren't providing relief, it is vitally important that you see a physician for an in-depth evaluation and plan of care. Constipation may indicate a more serious health problem; consult your GP immediately if chronic constipation persists.

1. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water -- particularly water with added calcium, potassium or magnesium -- is a simple and natural remedy for constipation. The added fluid softens and bulks up stool so it moves through your colon more easily.

Foods high in soluble fiber such as beans, whole grains, pears, prunes, apricots and berries may be beneficial. Supplements containing psyllium such as Metamucil or Konsyl (r) could also prove effective.

If dietary and lifestyle adjustments do not provide relief from constipation, simple over-the-counter laxatives often do. Osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol 3350 (MiraLax(r), generic) or magnesium hydroxide (Phillips'(r) Milk of Magnesia) work by drawing water into your intestine, softening stool as they draw water in. Meanwhile, stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl/sennosides (Dulcolax(r), stimulate colon walls to contract and force out stool from underneath their walls.

2. Eat a High-Fiber Diet         

Eating a diet rich in fiber is one of the best natural treatments for constipation, helping slow digestion while adding bulk and regularity.

One traditional treatment for constipation is herbal medication for constipation and prunes or prune juice, which contain sorbitol - an undigested sugar alcohol which draws water into the gut to bulk up stool and stimulate bowel movement.

Add more pears, which contain both sorbitol and apple juice, into your diet or consider stewed apricots; de-stone and chop one punnet before simmering at low to medium heat until soft for a delicious breakfast treat with yoghurt or granola!

Reach for 22 to 34 grams of dietary fiber each day from a range of foods. If dietary and lifestyle adjustments don't alleviate constipation, seek medical attention immediately.

3. Take a Laxative

If diet and exercise don't do the trick, laxatives may provide relief. Common over-the-counter options include bulk laxatives like psyllium or fiber supplements that add moisture to stool to make it softer and easier to pass; and osmotic laxatives like Miralax or milk of magnesia that work quickly but can cause cramping or bloating; as well as suppositories inserted directly into the rectum for fast relief.

Stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl (Ex-lax and Dulcolax laxative tablets and generic) and senna (Senokot and generic), stimulate rhythmic muscle contractions in the colon to facilitate bowel movements while potentially causing abdominal discomfort or diarrhea.

4. Exercise

Exercise can help promote healthy bowel movements. Exercising regularly encourages your colon muscles to function effectively and enable stool passage more smoothly and easily.

Before beginning any exercise routine, it is always wise to consult a medical provider, particularly if there are underlying health conditions which could be affected negatively by physical activity.

Opioids and antidepressants may also contribute to constipation; if this is happening to you, speak to your physician as soon as possible about this problem.

TikTok tricks may claim to help ease constipation, but these methods often are just temporary solutions. Instead, light exercise like walking may provide better relief.

5. Relax

People suffering from constipation often fail to relax their anal sphincter muscles properly and use pakistan herbal when trying to defecate, leading to incomplete evacuation and hard, small stools.

Make sure to sit as long as possible while having a bowel movement to ensure maximum efficacy. Try going right after eating a large meal like breakfast or lunch to stimulate intestinal contractions and facilitate expulsion of stool.

Use a lubricated finger to gently massage the perineal skin around your anus, vagina or scrotum until it feels relaxed and loose. Or give yourself a full body or back massage to relieve tension. Massage may help improve digestion, relieve pain and stimulate bowel movement!