Constipation

The normal frequency of bowel movements can vary from 3 times a day to 3 times a week, and most people have a regular habit. Passing hard stools less than 3 times a week is probably a constipated person. Other symptoms include bloating, nausea, cramping in a lower abdomen, headache, mouth ulcer and bad breath. Eating a diet that is low in fiber, not drinking enough fluids, having a sedentary lifestyle, emotional stress or repeatedly ignoring the urge to go to the bathroom can contribute to constipation. Some medicines, such as certain painkillers and iron supplements, may cause or aggravate the problem. Occasionally, constipation is caused by an underlying illness. 

Home Remedies

• Eat a raw apple about an hour after a meal. Apples are very cleansing, and
     will encourage bowel movements. Pineapple juice, pears, guava are also
     effective.

• Eat a handful of raisins everyday, at least an hour after meals.

• Eat ripe yellow bananas between meals, not with the meals.

• Honey has laxative properties and can be added to food or drinks to relieve
     constipation.

• Squeeze half a lime in a glass of hot water, add half a teaspoon of salt in it
     and drink.

• For constipation in children, give 3 figs soaked in warm water.

• For constipation during pregnancy, a cup of hot milk with a teaspoon of
     ghee added is effective.

 Do's

• Eat more fiber rich foods, fresh vegetables and fruits.

• Drink eight to ten glasses of pure water daily.

• Exercise regularly for 20-30 minutes.

• Go to bathroom when urge; don’t wait. Allow adequate time for bowel
     movements.

 Don’ts

• Don’t skip breakfast. Having a hot drink with breakfast helps to stimulate
     bowel.

• Avoid sugar, cheese, and refined white flour.

• Avoid hurried meals and meals at odd times.

 See Doctor                                    

• Constipation has not cleared up after 7 days.

• Having recurrent bouts of constipation.