Constipation happens. And happens. And, yet people prefer to not to talk about it, so we research to find solutions. Fast acting constipation relief is what we want; however, understanding may be what we need to make the lifestyle choices to get rid of constipation for the long run.
According to Medical News Today, "constipation happens when the colon absorbs too much water; this can occur if the muscles in the colon are contracting slowly or poorly, causing the stool to move too slowly and lose more water." Although this may be a description of the physiological mechanics of how constipation happens in the body, the behavioral causes seem more pertinent, and what foods can we eat to lead to a regular and healthy digestive system.
In our mind, one of the big factors that causes constipation is not drinking enough water. It sounds simple, but most people probably do not drink enough. Then on top of that, we think exercising, and dripping enormous amounts of sweat is healthy and to get more healthy. We forget that all that sweat is coming from somewhere, and if we do not replenish our bodies with enough water, our body gets dehydrated, which lead to constipation. Over time, if we consistently drain our body of water through constant exercise and no replenishment, chronic constipation and hemorrhoids usually ensue.
The recommendation is eight cups of water, give or take. Room temperature is easier to drink and less taxing on your body than ice cold water. It is important to note that going poop 1 to 3 times a day is the goal. Not every other day.
Drinking expensive fresh pressed juices will probably not help constipation. Most fresh pressed juices take out the fruit fiber, so although it is a liquid, it is missing much of the important "material" to make for better bowel movements. Our suggestion: save your money!
A detox diet that helps liver detoxification and increases bile can help with constipation and indigestion. Bowels move more easily with increased bile flow. Dandelion extract contains chemical components such as taraxacin, which can increase bile output, helping digestion and absorption of fats.
Flaxseed is a good source of essential fatty acids, and ground flaxseed is high in fiber, which can be an effective treatment for constipation.
Baobab fruit is very high in fiber, that is 50% fiber. About half is soluble and the other half insoluble fiber. Baobab is an excellent superfood to eat to help with relieving constipation and increasing overall digestive health. The advantage of baobab superfruit is since it naturally dehydrates inside the shell, the powder is easy to consume with a high absorption rate, especially in smoothies or other recipes which can be found on our powbab® Recipes blog.
Apples. The pectin fiber found in apples is good for the gut and is detoxifying. Apples are also widely available year around, making it an easy fruit to find and incorporate in your diet, even while traveling.
Eating a well-balanced diet with fruit and vegetables as a large portion of your plate is a good strategy for avoiding constipation. Eating meals heavy on meat, dairy, processed foods in combination with not drinking enough water is a recipe for constipation. Typically, people who eat out at restaurants often, do not eat daily portions of fruits and vegetables face higher likelihood for constipation. Add to that, travel, stress and an irregular schedule, these all may lead to constipation.
