Why Constipation Can Be Serious - 10 Foods That Can Help

A report by the Mayo Clinic revealed that up to 63 million people in North America alone suffer from constipation. It is not a health condition to be treatly lightly. Why? It can cause other, more serious health problems like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal incontinence, colonic conditions and urologic disorders.

Why constipation is dangerous

Not only is constipation uncomfortable, but as you get older, chronic constipation can strip the large intestine from its thinning, mucosal membrane, and cause flat lesions and polyps that can eventually turn into colon cancer. It can also cause tearing of tissue, known as fissures, hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the anus, and fecal incontinence.

Foods that will help

Eating the right foods will often relieve constipation. It is always best to use natural methods to relieve constipation rather than turn to laxatives, which can lead to overuse and decreased bowel function. Natural remedies can be found in these foods.

1. Watermelon - this fruit is 99 percent water, and water helps move food through the intestinal tract.
2. Whole grains - are full of fiber, and fiber found in whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat, oatmeal, and barley helps soften stool so it’s easier to go.
3. Dark leafy greens - all contain magnesium which helps soften stools, making them easier to pass. Examples are kale, collards, Swiss chard, and spinach.
4. Blueberries/strawberries/apples/pears - contain pectin which is a type of fiber, important for the proper functioning of the bowel.
5. Yogurt - contains probiotics, which is important for healthy gut bacteria.
6. Broccoli/cauliflower - these veggies are great sources of fiber that helps waste flow through the digestive tract.
7. Oranges - fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes not only contain pectin which is a fiber, but are high in water content, which softens stools.
8. Sweet potatoes - have it all, including water, fiber, magnesium, and vitamin B6. Sweet potatoes are also good for the nervous system which plays a role in bowel movements.
9. Coffee - good news for millions of coffee drinker, coffee with caffeine stimulates your brain and your bowels.
10. Cabbage/saurkraut - both are good for the bowels. Cabbage has lots of fiber, and saurkraut is high in probiotics, which aid in the digestive process.

Want to know more about foods good for constipation? Go to www.rd.com/health/wellness/natural-laxative-foods/15/