Constipation is a problem of the digestive system. When the bowels do not move properly it results into constipation. Even when they move they are not emptied completely.

The main cause of many diseases is constipation. It produces toxins, which mix up into the blood and are carried to all the parts of the body. Many diseases such as headache, stomach disorders, piles, fissures and fistulas are a result of constipation.

Bowel movements vary from person to person. Some people have one motion a day, some go two times a day and some even go to the toilet three times. But for normal health at least one clear bowel movement is essential.

Major symptoms of constipation are loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, pimples on the face, mouth ulcers, varicose veins and insomnia.

The most important causes of constipation are sedentary living habits, lack of proper exercise and wrong diet. Foods which contain high percentage of fibre and roughage are very good in treating constipation and reducing the problem. Usually due to the intake of fast food, junk food, and cold drinks the digestive system has to waste a lot of energy for the proper digestion of food. As a result of this, stools become hard and difficult to evacuate which ultimately leads to constipation.

Nature Cure for Constipation: The first important basic step in curing constipation is a simple and well balanced diet. This should consist of foods rich in fibre content such as green leafy vegetables, tomato, spinach, lettuce, French beans,

Cabbage, cauliflower, beets, sprouts, pumpkins and fresh fruits such as grapes, figs, papayas, mangoes, pears, guava and oranges. Dry fruits such as dates, apricots and raisins and milk products in the form of ghee, butter and cream are also very helpful in removing constipation. A glass of butter milk, taken daily during meals makes the bowel movements regular and easy.

Along with a systematic diet, proper chewing of the food is also essential. Each morsel of the food should be chewed at least 10 times. Eating fast and taking meals at odd times should be avoided. Sweet products and other products containing sugar should be avoided, as sugar steals away the B vitamins from the body and this disrupts the normal functioning of intestines. Products prepared from white flour, bread, rice, biscuits, pastries, pulses, cheese, non-vegetarian food, and tin food are the major culprits for creating constipation.

Water is very important in removing constipation and proper movement of the bowels. Water flushes out the system, dilutes the blood and washes away the toxins and poisons from the body. Normally 10 to 12 glasses of water should be taken daily as it naturally aids the process of digestion and proper absorption of nutrients by the body. But it should not be taken along with meals as it dissolves the gastric juices necessary for digestion. Water should be taken one hour before or one hour after the meals.

Fruits also contain high source of fibre and roughage. All fruits except jackfruit and banana are useful in the treatment of constipation. Bael fruit is considered as the best laxative as it cleans up and clears the system. When taken regularly for at least 2 months it throws out all the accumulated faecial matter. It serves twin purposes of hardening the stools during dysentery and as a laxative during constipation. About 50 grams of original bael fruit taken before dinner is enough for a normal adult.

Drinking lukewarm water early in the morning after getting up is also regarded as a best remedy for constipation. Obese persons can take it along with half a teaspoon of honey and lime juice as it reduces extra fat from the body and makes you fit and fine. Taking 2 teaspoons or 5ml of castor oil along with milk or tea in the morning, once a week also helps in the proper movement of bowels and serves as a good laxative. Water kept in a copper vessel overnight and taken early in the morning not only cures constipation but also helps in removing excessive heat from the body and cools down the system.

Toning up the muscles also helps in treating constipation. Brisk-walking, jogging, swimming, gardening and outdoor exercises play an important role in activating and strengthening the muscles which ultimately prevents constipation.

Yogic asanas, Pranayamas and Kriyas also prove to be helpful in curing constipation as they increase the strength and elasticity of pelvic and abdominal muscles and stimulate the efficient movement of bowels. Examples of these yogic asana are Yogamudra, shalabhasana, halasana, dhanurasana, bhujangasana and paschimatasana. Pranayamas such as anulomaviloma, kapalbhati and bhastrika are also very useful. Taking fresh air, early in the morning while walking also provides natural oxygen to the body and keeps you fit and stress free.

Thus we can conclude that constipation can be prevented and controlled by changing your lifestyle, diet and eating habits. Natural foods, along with proper exercise and diet go a long way in curing constipation.