Constipation represents with its spread and as at the same time shameful topic a “secret” widespread disease. For their removal a multiplicity of medicamentous laxatives is available in the pharmacies, which cause in the long run however intestine inertia and dependence. Meanwhile, home remedies achieve an effective remedy in a natural way, without harmful side effects.
What helps against constipation?
Dried fruits have a stimulating effect on the intestines. The foundation for a life without constipation problems is a healthy diet. Here, fast food and convenience foods no longer find a place, instead vacating their position on the menu for freshly prepared meals with leafy salads or a raw vegetable as the first course. Dietary fibers are particularly beneficial for digestion. They bind water in the large intestine, swell up and in this way promote intestinal activity. People should eat between 25 and 30 grams of dietary fiber per day. They are found mainly in vegetables such as peas, beans, carrots and white cabbage, but also in cereals, bran and potatoes. Five small snacks each day are recommended, consisting of fruits such as apples, oranges or pears. Other fruits that are beneficial for digestion are grapes containing seeds and watermelons. The minimum daily consumption should be 350 grams of untreated grapes or half of a large melon. This shows the most effective effect pure, without mixed with other fruits, and enjoyed on an empty stomach. In addition to digestible food, the intestines need enough water to moisten them. The intake of at least two liters of non-carbonated water a day causes regular bowel movements and at the same time a health prophylaxis for all bodily organs.
Quick help
Until, for example, a change in diet or increased exercise show success in digestion, fast-acting laxatives from the medicine cabinet can be consulted. These include prune juice in the first place. The dried fruits soaked overnight in water are taken in the morning together with a glass of the liquid on an empty stomach. In case of lack of success, the amount can be increased to two glasses. After that, however, one day should be waited, because the effect may occur a little later. The intestines react in the same way to other dried fruits, preferably figs. These are treated in a similar way to prunes, or they are eaten without prior soaking, together with a large glass of water. About five fruits can be eaten every three hours until the desired result is achieved. The bark of the red elm is also very useful for constipation. Its natural mucilage surrounds the stool hardenings like a lubricant and helps them on their way to the anus. Likewise, the bark of the red elm finds its use in cases of intestinal irritation or chronic intestinal inflammation. A teaspoon of natural olive oil taken in the morning performs similar services. Absolute immediate assistance aligns an enema. Using a mini enema, the so-called irrigator, lukewarm water, including herbal tea such as chamomile, is flushed through the anus into the intestine, thus activating intestinal peristalsis. Intestinal enemas are used for a variety of ailments. For example, they counteract headaches, colds and allergies by completely emptying and cleansing the intestines.
Alternative remedies
Other alternatives to medications as laxatives include digestive vegetable juices. They are composed of sauerkraut, carrots and tomatoes, if necessary with the addition of a pepper or chili pepper for intestinal hygiene. Also natural honey plays a role as gentle house means for intestine activation, while coffee consumption releases stress in the body at the same time. Furthermore, daily flaxseed soaked overnight in water (about 5 tablespoons) ensures a healthy bowel movement. Important for the body health is above all movement. Thus, a functional intestine is also dependent on sporting activities. If these have to be cancelled due to age or illness, at least gymnastic exercises are advisable. All movements that use the abdominal muscles also get the bowels moving. Exercises are usually done from the supine position or alternatively while sitting on a chair. For bedridden patients who are unable to move, “bowel massage” can be considered.It is performed several times a day on the abdomen in the direction of the course of the intestine from the lower right, above the navel along to the lower left and lasts about ten minutes each time.