5 hours agoAuthor: Aditi Ojha
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Today Constipation has become a common problem due to the fast pace of life, poor lifestyle and irregular eating habits. If constipation persists for a long time, it affects body functioning and overall health.
According to ‘Abbott’s Gut Health Survey report, about 22% of adults in India suffer from constipation. Of these, 13% are seriously affected.
Often people take medicines to get relief from constipation. Whereas natural laxatives can provide relief from constipation. These are such foods or substances which improve bowel movement. Due to this the stool becomes soft and there is no problem of constipation.
so today needed news I will know that-
- What are natural laxatives?
- How do they work in the body?
- Which foods contain natural laxatives?
Expert: Dr. Nripen Saikia, Senior Consultant, Gastrology, PSRI Hospital, Delhi
Question- What are laxatives?
answer- Laxatives means such medicines or food items, which help in cleaning the stomach by giving relief from constipation. Laxatives work in different ways. Usually, doctors give laxatives when the stomach is not cleared.
Question- What are natural laxatives?
answer- Natural laxatives means such natural things which help in cleaning the stomach. This includes fiber rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains. Like artificial laxatives, they do not contain chemicals. These are usually part of the daily diet and provide relief from constipation in a gentle, natural way.
Question- How do natural laxatives work in the body?
answer- Natural laxatives work in two ways in the body.
- The fiber and water present in them soften the stool, so that it can pass easily.
- Some natural options keep the bowels regular by increasing light movements of the intestines.
Question- Which foods are natural laxatives?
answer- Natural laxatives are fiber rich foods, which help in keeping the stomach clean. See the list of natural laxatives in the graphic-
Let us understand these in some detail-
Fruit
Some fruits act as natural laxatives. Fruits like papaya, guava, apple (with peel), pear, banana (ripe), orange, sweet lime, grapes, kiwi and pomegranate are rich in fiber.
Fiber increases the volume of stool and softens it, making bowl movements easier. Apart from this, these fruits contain high amount of water, which keeps the body hydrated and reduces the problem of constipation.
Figs (fresh/dried)
Figs contain high fiber, especially its small seeds which stimulate the intestines. It softens the stool and helps in passing it out easily. Therefore, it has been used as a home remedy for constipation in earlier times.
Prunes
Prunes contain a natural element ‘sorbitol’. This absorbs water in the intestines, which softens the stool and improves bowel movement. This provides relief from constipation.
flax seeds
Flax seeds are rich in fiber. These create a gel-like texture in the intestines, due to which the stool passes smoothly and bowel movements remain regular.
Coffee
The caffeine present in coffee stimulates the intestinal muscles. It can trigger bowel movements by increasing the activity of the colon (large intestine). That’s why many people feel like going to the toilet immediately after drinking coffee.
Lemon
Lemon juice helps in digestion. It increases the production of gastric juice. Helps in bowel movements when taken with lukewarm water.
Question- What are the natural solutions to avoid constipation?
answer- Some methods can be adopted for this. Look at the graphic-
Question- Can natural laxatives have side effects?
answer- Yes, taking natural laxatives in the wrong way or in excessive amounts can cause harm. For example, drinking too much coffee can cause caffeine toxicity. See all its side effects in the graphic-
Let us understand in some detail-
1. Gas, bloating Taking natural laxatives like isabgol, chia seeds or oats in excess can cause gas.
2. Stomach cramps or pain Some natural laxatives like prunes or figs should not be taken in large quantities. This greatly increases bowel movement, which can cause cramps.
3. Diarrhea Taking too many natural laxatives can loosen the stool, but it can cause diarrhea instead of curing constipation.
4. Dehydration Laxatives absorb water. Therefore, it is important to drink lots of water continuously along with them. Drinking less water can cause dehydration.
5. Electrolyte imbalance Taking natural laxatives in large quantities can disturb the sodium-potassium balance in the body.
6. The effect of medicines may reduce Isabgol or high fiber natural laxatives affect the absorption of some medicines.
7. Allergy Some people may be allergic to natural laxative foods.
Question- Can there be permanent dependence on natural or over-the-counter laxatives?
answer- Yes, both types of laxatives can cause dependence. But here it is important to understand that the risk of dependency is not always the same for everyone. Some reasons for dependency are-
- If laxatives are taken daily for weeks-months.
- If laxatives are taken on your own without doctor’s advice.
- If the focus is on instant relief, but lifestyle improvements are not made.
- If there is any medical condition like IBS or thyroid.
- If over-the-counter stimulant laxatives are used excessively.
- If the timing and routine of going to the toilet is bad.
Overall, natural laxatives are great everyday dietary options that help keep your stomach light and improve digestion. Although these are mostly safe, every body’s response is different. Therefore, take them in balanced quantity and it is important to keep your lifestyle balanced as well. If the problem of constipation persists often, do not ignore it.
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