Constipation refers to an uncomfortable situation where infrequent and insufficient bowel movements lead to small hard stools that are difficult to pass. This can lead to intense discomfort and abdominal pain. The main causes for constipation are lack of adequate water intake and low levels of fibre in the diet. In addition to this, anxiety, injuries and even certain medications can lead to constipation. The best ways to treat constipation do not need medication, which can aggravate the problem by adding side-effects. For long-term chronic constipation, the first thing you should do is check if you water intake is adequate, i.e. stick to a target of 2 litres a day. Drink a glass of warm water every morning on an empty stomach to help clear it. You can also add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the water. Alternately, mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil and half a lemon juice to a glass of warm water and drink this on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Apart from this consume plenty of fresh green vegetables, especially lettuce and parsley.
Avoid all refined flour products, and consume plenty of raw fruits and vegetables, especially apples, cabbage, plums and figs. You can soak plums or dates overnight in water and drink the water first thing in the morning to induce regular bowel movements. Tea prepared by blanching a teaspoon of tea in warm water and honey to taste should be consumed 3 minutes after preparation. Carrot juice or tomato juice consumed daily also helps treat constipation. Consumption of potatoes, cooked red beet, horseradish, chickpeas, banana and honey relieve constipation problems.
answered by M W