Best laxatives for constipation

Everyone’s body is different and that includes the various daily functions of the body. You know what is normal for your body and bowel movements. Some people experience a bowel movement as many as three times a day; while others have only one. In our lifetime, we have all experienced constipation. It’s not only bothersome, but can cause gas build up and intestinal pain. Our physicians warn us about any long term use of laxatives, but are there any that would be considered the best laxatives for constipation?

Constipation can be caused by a variety of conditions and situations. A poor diet is one of the main reasons. Other causes can include inactivity, pregnancy and taking medication. There are some of us that experience constipation every time we travel. This is not a permanent condition, but if experienced too often it can be part of a disorder known as irritable bowel syndrome.

The thinking about the best laxatives for constipation, there are many considerations. Laxatives are available in oral form via tablets, liquid, powders and gum. There are also suppository forms that are inserted anally. An over the counter laxative typically works by drawing water from the body into the colon area. Depending upon the laxative you can experience everything from belching, gas buildup, cramping, increased thirst, diarrhea, vomiting, urine discoloration, faintness, dizziness and bloating. If enough water is not taken to replenish your system, you can also cause increased constipation.

Over the counter oral laxatives can interfere with the general balance of the body’s ability in absorption of medication and nutrients from your food. They can also create an imbalance with the body’s electrolyte function. Electrolytes are needed by the body to regulate the rhythm of the heart and contraction of muscles. They can also have a detrimental affect with medicinal interactions, causing dangerous side effects or reducing the effect of the medicine. Long term use of laxatives can cause damage to nerves, muscles and tissues of the large intestines. There is also a chance of body dependency which can be difficult to reverse.

While taking a laxative pill is the easiest route, the consequences can be risky. Before venturing down that path, you might want to first add fiber foods to your diet, increase your daily water intake and begin a regular exercise routine. Treating the problem in a natural way is a lot healthier and easy to do. For quick relief there are now water soluble fiber powders that can be an easy and safer solution. Ground flaxseeds are another option. The nutty taste can be sprinkled over your food. If you want to add a fiber supplement to your dietary regiment, this must be done slowly to avoid gas buildup. Psyllium husk supplements can be found at a high quality health food store. There are also herbal laxatives that usually include rhubarb, senna, aloe and or buckthorn. These are considered stimulant laxatives and should not be used for more than one week.

Always consult with your primary physician or medical provider before adding anything to your diet.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.