Laxatives are used to relieve symptoms of constipation. But, like all pills, they have side effects, so natural remedies are always popular.
Doctors recommend including natural laxatives in your diet to improve digestion and regulate bowel movements.
How do natural laxatives work?
- Increase stool volume
- Soften stool
- Promote the absorption of water from feces
- Stimulate intestinal function
What foods are natural laxatives?
- High-fiber foods: whole-grain breads and cereals, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and legumes
- Magnesium-rich foods: leafy greens, avocados, nuts, fortified cereals, chia seeds, dark chocolate and fatty fish
- Probiotic foods: natural yogurt, cheese, broccoli, prunes, soybeans, chia seeds, figs
What drinks are natural laxatives?
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- Water. Drink enough water throughout the day to soften dry stools and improve digestion.
- Plum juice: It can help prevent the formation of hard, lumpy stools.
- Coffee: Caffeine stimulates bowel movements by increasing bowel contractions.
Which plants are natural laxatives? Please note that herbs should not be used without consulting a doctor, some of them have a strong effect.
- Senna: A powerful natural stimulant laxative. Causes contractions of the muscles lining the intestines.
- Ginger: Can speed up digestive activity and also prevent bloating and cramps.
- Peppermint: Peppermint tea is drunk to treat gastrointestinal ailments. Has a soothing effect on the digestive tract and may relieve constipation.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera juice, tea, and dietary supplements help relieve occasional constipation by improving peristalsis.
< b>Other natural laxatives
- Abdominal massage
- Bowel training: try to go to the toilet at the same time every day
- Exercise
When using laxatives, especially in excess, side effects are possible.
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
Long-term use of any laxative can make you dependent on it, writes The Health.
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Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.