How To Prevent Constipation

  • May 7, 2009
  • 7,488 Views
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Constipation affects almost everyone at some time. Follow these tips to help prevent it.

You Will Need

  • Water
  • Exercise
  • High-fiber foods
  • Ginger tea
  • Sleep
  • A medical checkup (optional)

If constipation is accompanied by recurrent vomiting and abdominal pain, seek medical attention.

How To Prevent Constipation: Drink more water

Step 1: Drink more water

Drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water per day. Constipation sufferers are often dehydrated.

How To Prevent Constipation: Exercise regularly

Step 2: Exercise regularly

Stay active. About 30 minutes of physical activity each day will not only keep you in shape but also reduce the risk of constipation.

Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.

How To Prevent Constipation: Eat more fiber

Step 3: Eat more fiber

Eat foods rich in fiber such as fresh fruit and vegetables with skins, beans, oatmeal, and high-fiber breakfast cereal.

How To Prevent Constipation: Drink ginger tea

Step 4: Drink ginger tea

Try ginger tea, which helps improve digestion and calms down the stomach after a heavy meal.

How To Prevent Constipation: Take a folic acid supplement

Step 5: Take a folic acid supplement

Constipation can be a side effect of a folic acid deficiency. Try a daily 60-mcg folic acid supplement.

How To Prevent Constipation: Get more sleep

Step 6: Get more sleep

Lack of sleep can lead to anxiety, which in turn can cause problems in the digestive system. Aim for at least seven hours of quality sleep per night.

How To Prevent Constipation: Check with your doctor

Step 7: Check with your doctor

If your bowel patterns remain abnormal, visit your doctor. Prescription medication or an underlying condition could be the culprit.

Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement can increase the chance of constipation.

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Comments (4)

mmf23

Well done.

over 2 years ago by mmf23

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HeatherM

Very helpful video....kinda makes me giggle a bit too!

over 2 years ago by HeatherM

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dimitri

thank you SO much Michael it really helped

about 1 year ago by dimitri

Reply
deliciousbeam

oh boy....so this is what you've been doing with yourslef all this time...

over 2 years ago by deliciousbeam

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