Often caused by the lack of fiber and water in the body, chronic constipation can affect your day-to-day routine as well as your moods. The irregular and difficult bowel movements caused due to chronic constipation can be detrimental to your health in the long run. Although it is normal to have constipation, frequent episodes can be a cause for concern. In extreme cases, you may even require to undergo surgery or visit the ER if the symptoms are severe. To avoid such complications, here are few things you can do to take care of yourself if you have chronic constipation.

What are the best ways for constipation relief?

• One of the best ways for constipation relief is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Start the day by drinking a glass of warm water. For those with irritable bowel syndrome, drinking carbonated water can be helpful in easing chronic constipation symptoms.
• Have foods that contain non-fermentable soluble fiber. You can also have this in supplement form with a prescription from your doctor.
• Kegel exercises or pelvic floor exercises are also helpful in giving relief from constipation. Ensure that you do gentle and light exercises that do not strain your back.

Which foods should be avoided when you have chronic constipation symptoms?

• One of the chronic constipation causes can be an intolerance to dairy-based products. So it is recommended to avoid foods that are dairy based. These include milk, cheese, cottage cheese, butter, ice cream, milkshakes, and so on.
• Avoid foods that contain processed sugar. Cookies, cakes, pastries, and crackers contain processed sugar and refined carbohydrates which aggravate chronic constipation symptoms.
• Avoid fried foods such as chips and frozen dinners as they are high in sodium. The sodium absorbs the water that would have been used in regulating bowel movements. Also, such foods are very greasy and take time to digest. This can be a chronic constipation cause. `
• While ripe bananas can give chronic constipation relief, unripe and green bananas can trigger constipation. So do not eat unripe bananas if you feel constipated.

Which foods should be included in the diet in the case of chronic constipation?

• You can eat berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries when you have chronic constipation. These berries are low in calories and high in fiber that eases bowel movement.
• You can also snack on popcorn to get relief from constipation. Ensure that you do not add salt or butter and the popcorn is microwaved or air popped.
• Beans are a rich source of fiber that helps in chronic constipation treatment. You can add Lima beans, navy beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans to salads, casseroles, or soups.
• Dried foods such as prunes, apricots, raisins, figs, and dates can also help with chronic constipation. Make sure that they do not contain added sugar, which can aggravate constipation symptoms.

Can chronic constipation be treated at home?

• Home remedies for chronic constipation usually include dietary and lifestyle changes. These help in giving relief from constipation by alleviating the discomfort caused by chronic constipation symptoms.
• However, frequent episodes of chronic constipation may lead to several health complications such as appendicitis, rectal prolapse, hemorrhoids, and so on. Hence, it is advisable to consult a doctor and undergo chronic constipation treatments.
• Home treatments may be done along with treatments prescribed by a doctor. The home treatment can expedite the effects of medical treatment and help in getting rid of chronic constipation sooner.

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