by Janeen Elite

Created on: December 04, 2009

Constipation is a condition where bowel movements are delayed or difficult to pass. It can result in bloating, stomach pain or even cause it to be painful when trying to go to the bathroom. Constipation is usually defined as having a bowel movement fewer than at least 3 times a week.

There are a few possible causes of constipation such as: a diet low in fiber, a low intake of fluids, irregular meals, large intake of refined foods, aging, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), or even more serious medical conditions such as an underactive thyroid, diabetes or even cancer.

Most cases of constipation are not that serious however, though the condition itself can be quite uncomfortable.

Here are a few home remedies for constipation that you can use to find relief.

Drink More Water

One of the easier and more effective home remedies for constipation is to simply drink more water. Approximately 6 to 8 glasses of water a day can help to loosen up and/or flush out your system.

Eat Mango

Eating Mango is another great way to help get your system back on track.

Eat Pineapple or Drink Pineapple Juice

Eating Pineapple or drinking pineapple juice is a third easy and natural way to help relieve constipation and prevent it in the future. Eating the actual fruit is better for you than drinking the juice because of the common sugars and additives that are normally added to the juice, but if you are already suffering from constipation, the juice may work faster.

Be Careful of Coffee

For some people drinking coffee is like a natural laxative that helps them go first thing in the morning like clockwork. For others however, it can have the exact opposite effect. The caffeine in coffee and other caffeinated beverages can actually contribute to constipation, so this is a remedy you have to decide on for yourself. If you are a habitual coffee drinker and are suffering from constipation you might want to switch to decaffeinated tea to see if that helps solve the problem. If you do not normally drink coffee and are constipated, you might want to experiment with a cup to see how your particular system handles it. If constipation is due to IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) then chances are you should not use coffee as a home remedy because it can actually worsen your condition.

Prune Juice

Prune Juice is another natural effective laxative that can help relieve constipation, but it is something you need to develop a taste for. Usually a small glass in the morning and a small glass in the evening will help get

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