Foods to eat and avoid to relieve constipation
Constipation is characterized by a difficulty in passing stools and decreased frequency of bowel movements. The causes of this digestive disorder include eating low-soluble fiber meals, being dehydrated, and living a sedentary lifestyle. It is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems faced in the country, affecting close to 2.5 million people. That being said, most mild cases of constipation can be controlled by following a healthy lifestyle and by eating and avoiding certain foods. Here is a list of common foods to eat and avoid during constipation: Foods to eat Prunes Prunes are an ideal choice when it comes to tackling constipation at home. They are packed with fiber, which helps ease as well as speed up bowel movements. Studies have indicated that prunes increase the frequency of bowel movements and improve the consistency of the stool. Apples Apples are one of the best foods to eat for constipation. That’s because they are full of fiber, especially insoluble fiber. Eating apples can increase water content in the colon, soften the stool, and accelerate stool movement through the intestines. For maximum constipation relief, it is advisable to eat raw and whole apples. Oats Oats are a type of whole grain packed with soluble fiber.
