Constipation means difficulty passing stools. A person suffering from constipation may experience strain and pass lump and hard stools. It is one of the most common health conditions in the country, with at least 14% of the population suffering from it. Sadly, this condition can lead to other complications, like hemorrhoids. But a few foods can help relieve the condition. Let’s take a look at some foods that can help relieve constipation.
Apples
Apples are a great source of fiber if eaten with their skin. They contain soluble fiber that is mainly in the form of dietary fiber called pectin. Gut bacteria rapidly ferment pectin, and this retains water in the colon, softening the stool and providing relief from constipation.
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits such as grapefruit, orange, and mandarins are also a good source of fiber. Apart from pectin, they also contain a good amount of vitamin C and a flavonol called naringenin. A combination of these can ease constipation.
Prunes
Prunes or dried plums have been long used as a remedy for constipation. Like apple and other citrus fruits, prunes also contain high amounts of fiber. These produce short-chain fatty acids that help in increasing stool weight.
Sweet potato
Apart from being a great alternative to potatoes, sweet potatoes are rich in an insoluble fiber called cellulose and lignin that help add bulk to the stools, aiding easy bowel movement.
Peas and lentils
These contain a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber which means a bowl-full of peas and lentils can add bulk to stools and soften them for easy passage. Peas and lentils can be incorporated into meals in the form of salad or soups. Moreover, they can even be added to ground meat dishes for extra bulk and taste.
Experiencing recurrent or serious bouts of constipation could be an indicator of an underlying condition like Crohn’s Disease. It is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes severe inflammation. Crohn’s can constrict the intestines, making it tougher for food to pass through.
Additionally, for those who are considering trying supplements to relieve constipation, Senokot® offers a range of laxative products in the form of gummies and tea.
Medication
While there are foods that can help manage constipation symptoms, it is crucial to be aware of medications that can relieve chronic cases. Some of them are:
MOVANTIK
MOVANTIK, a prescription medicine, comes in 25mg or 12.5mg tablets that can be taken once a day on an empty stomach for a particular duration. MOVANTIK is one of the best and doctor-recommended constipation treatment options. Several websites offer MOVANTIK for constipation relief at lower prices using coupons.
Amitiza
Amitiza is another prescription medicine used to treat constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The medication comes in the form of capsules and can be taken in with food and water. The oral gelatin capsules have two varients: 8mcg and 24mcg. Doctors will prescribe these based on the severity of constipation.
LINZESS (linaclotide) capsules
LINZESS (linaclotide) is a constipation medication that must be administered if one experiences the symptoms again despite resorting to over-the-counter treatments or lifestyle changes. The capsule must be administered orally once a day and might help promote better and more frequent bowel movements. The regular bowel movements caused by LINZESS can help relieve pain in the belly and even certain abdominal pains, discomforts, or bloating. If you qualify for the LINZESS Savings Program, you can pay as low as $30 for a 90-day or 30-day supply of LINZESS.
