6 natural laxatives that relieve constipation

Constipation cuts across the board but is usually more common in women than in men due to hormones. When we experience constipation, it is usually annoying and uncomfortable feeling ever!

Due to unhealthy diets and poor lifestyle, it has become more common because of the use of  laxatives. A laxative is a substance that loosens stool or stimulates a bowel movement. They are often used to treat constipation which is characterized by infrequent, difficult and sometimes painful bowel movements.

Before running to the pharmacy for over the counter medication, here are some natural and available ways to relieve constipation that actually work.

It not only keeps you hydrated but it is good for the rest of your body especially the digestive system. During constipation, the stool gets stuck in the colon and for it to come out you need to take plenty of water to soften and loosen the stool.

Greens like spinach, kales, and cabbage are most solid in terms of fiber. Not only are very nutrient-dense but they provide a good amount of vitamins, minerals, and fiber with relatively few calories. Your body requires some fiber to stimulate the colon and get it moving. Consuming these greens helps to naturally soften the stool and keep the digestive system on track.

Taking a bit of olive oil, castor oil or mineral oils are effective ways to alleviate constipation. The oils work by providing a coating in the rectum that allows for easier passage while also stimulating the small intestine to speed up transit. Taking a tablespoon of such oils will kick-start the bowel movement.

It contains anti-inflammatory properties which help ease the digestive lining to improve digestion. It is one of the most effective remedies to relieve constipation. According to Healthline, it gets its laxative effect from anthraquinone glycosides, compounds that draw water into the intestines and stimulate the movement of the digestive tract.

ACV is useful treating and preventing constipation.  It helps control the pH of the digestive system which fights harmful bacteria, it soothes and regulates bowel movement.

Coffee works because it contains some amounts of soluble fiber that stimulate the muscles in your digestive system. This is largely due to the effects of coffee on gastrin, a hormone that is released after eating. Gastrin is responsible for the secretion of gastric acid, which helps break down food in the stomach. Gastrin has also been shown to increase the movement of the intestinal muscles, which can help speed up intestinal transit and induce a bowel movement. Studies have shown that caffeinated coffee can stimulate your digestive tract as much as a meal and up to 60% more than water.