What will loosen stool

Starting these sooner rather than later can help prevent serious medical problems, such as a bowel obstruction. Over-the-counter treatments for constipation can cause unintended side effects of their own. Coconut oil is a common home remedy for constipation. Here's a look at how it works and how to use it.

Benefiber and Metamucil are fiber supplements that fight constipation. Learn how they compare. We asked doctors to investigate whether claims about the Squatty Potty are true or false.

Is there an average number of times a day you should poop, and what are some of the factors that affect frequency? Learn what typical bowel movements should include, as well as tips to poop more…. Laxatives can help relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Learn more about natural laxatives. Citrucel powder is a type of fiber supplement used for constipation. This article explains its uses, effectiveness, and potential side effects.

Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems. Learn more about the possible causes and how to treat constipation. Kombucha is a fizzy drink that's full of health benefits, but you may want to know whether it can help relieve constipation. This article explains…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Gerhard Whitworth, R. Causes Symptoms Complications Treatment Seeking medical help Summary Overview In a perfect world, your stool would be soft and easy to pass every time you need to have a bowel movement.

Hard stool causes. Hard stool symptoms. Hard stool treatment. Some laxatives and medicinal stool softeners can have side effects and lead to dependence. Because of this, some people prefer to opt for natural stool softeners. Constipation is widespread across the United States. Treatments for constipation include a change in diet to include more high fiber foods, increased fluid intake, more exercise, as well as laxatives and medicinal stool softeners. However, using these types of treatments can have some drawbacks.

Laxatives can help relieve constipation in the short term but can lead to dependence. Side effects of laxatives can include diarrhea , flatulence , bloating , and pain. Natural stool softeners have fewer drawbacks. Some may also boost health in other ways. This article looks at six natural stool softeners, as well as how to use them, and how long they take to work. Learn more about which foods are good for constipation here.

There are a number of different ways to soften stool naturally, including dietary changes, physical activity, and supplements. These include:. Most plant foods contain fiber. There are two kinds of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Insoluble fiber is the most beneficial for softening stools.

It does not dissolve in water and helps food pass more quickly from the stomach to the intestines. Wholewheat flour, nuts, beans, and vegetables, such as cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes all contain insoluble fiber. A person should increase fiber intake gradually and drink plenty of water. Water helps smooth its passage through the digestive tract.

One study found that psyllium husk and coarse wheat bran increased stool water content, which had a stool-softening effect. Finely-ground wheat bran had the opposite effect and decreased stool water content. Learn more about the benefits of dietary fiber here. Staying active has a host of health benefits, including encouraging regular bowel movements.

As a person moves their body, it helps stimulate their digestive system. Research has found that exercise is an effective treatment for people with constipation. These include yoga sequences specifically aimed at improving digestion. Pregnant women can also benefit from yoga tailored to their specific needs.

Learn more about how yoga might help constipation here. Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria naturally found in fermented foods, including kefir, sauerkraut, yogurt, kimchi, miso, kombucha, and tempeh. Whole wheat breads and cereals that also contain nuts and seeds pack even more fiber into each serving.

Olive and flaxseed oils have a mild laxative effect, which can ease the flow of materials through the intestines and relieve constipation. These oils also contain compounds that improve digestion and have antioxidant , antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. A study found that olive and flaxseed oils help to relieve constipation in people undergoing hemodialysis.

Sauerkraut contains probiotic bacteria that may help to improve digestion and reduce constipation. A study found that 2 tablespoons of homemade sauerkraut contain around the same amount of bacteria as probiotic supplements. A poor diet, such as one that includes too many rich and fatty foods and too little fiber, puts a person at risk of constipation.

Short-term constipation usually results from lifestyle factors or medication use. Chronic constipation is generally related to gastrointestinal, metabolic, or neurological conditions. There are several types of laxative available, including:. If over-the-counter or home remedies do not relieve constipation, or if constipation becomes chronic, see a doctor or dietitian to discuss other treatment options and dietary changes.

Constipation develops when stool becomes hard and difficult to pass. Reasons include a blockage and a low fiber diet. Learn more about the causes and…. Olive oil has long been used as a simple treatment for constipation. Learn more about this home remedy that gets stools moving again, and how to use…. They can experience symptoms that include constipation and…. Karo is a brand of corn syrup that is used as part of an old home remedy for constipation.

However, does Karo syrup reduce difficulties in passing…. Which foods are good for constipation? Medically reviewed by Natalie Olsen, R. Fourteen foods Causes Treatment We include products we think are useful for our readers.

Fourteen foods that can ease constipation. Share on Pinterest Probiotics may help to improve gut health. Share on Pinterest Olive oil can ease the flow of materials through the intestines.