how to get rid of constipation, followed by the top things you need to know about it.

1. Increase your fiber intake: One of the most effective ways to relieve constipation is to increase your fiber intake. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, making it easier to pass through your digestive system. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Aim to consume at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day.

2. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to constipation, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water is the best choice, but you can also drink other fluids such as herbal tea, fruit juice, and vegetable juice. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you further.

3. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help stimulate your digestive system and promote bowel movements. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming are all good options. If you have a sedentary job, try to take breaks throughout the day to stretch and move around.

4. Try natural remedies: There are several natural remedies that may help relieve constipation. For example, prunes and prune juice are a well-known remedy for constipation due to their high fiber and sorbitol content. Other natural remedies include aloe vera juice, flaxseed, and psyllium husk. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before trying any new remedies, especially if you are taking medications or have an underlying medical condition.

5. Consider over-the-counter medications: If lifestyle changes and natural remedies don’t improve your constipation, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications such as stool softeners, laxatives, or enemas. These medications work by either softening the stool or stimulating bowel movements. However, it’s important to use these medications as directed and not rely on them long-term, as they can cause side effects and lead to dependence.

6. Address underlying medical conditions: In some cases, constipation may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, or diabetes. If you have chronic constipation or other symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhea, talk to your doctor about getting tested for underlying medical conditions. Treating the underlying condition may help relieve your constipation.

7. Practice good toilet habits: When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, it’s important to go to the bathroom as soon as possible. Holding in your stool can make it harder and more painful to pass. Also, try to relax and take your time when you’re on the toilet. Straining or pushing too hard can cause hemorrhoids or other complications.

8. Manage stress: Stress can affect your digestive system and contribute to constipation. To manage stress, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Also, make time for activities that you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time with friends and family.

9. Keep a food diary: Keeping a food diary can help you identify foods that may be contributing to your constipation. For example, some people are sensitive to dairy products or gluten. By tracking what you eat and how it affects your bowel movements, you can make changes to your diet that may help relieve your constipation.

10. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can affect your digestive system and contribute to constipation. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. If you have trouble sleeping, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation, or talk to your doctor about other treatment options.

11. Avoid certain medications: Some medications can contribute to constipation, including pain medications, antidepressants, and antacids. If you’re taking medications that may be contributing to your constipation, talk to your doctor about alternative options or ways to manage your symptoms.

12. Don’t ignore the urge to go: When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, it’s important to go to the bathroom as soon as possible. Ignoring the urge can make your stool harder and more difficult to pass. If you’re in a situation where you can’t go to the bathroom right away, try to find a private place where you can relax and wait until you’re able to go.

13. Consider biofeedback therapy: Biofeedback therapy is a type of therapy that uses sensors to monitor your body’s functions, such as muscle tension and heart rate. By learning to control these functions, you may be able to improve your bowel movements and relieve constipation. Talk to your doctor about whether biofeedback therapy may be a good option for you.

14. Use the correct position: The position you use when you go to the bathroom can affect your ability to have a bowel movement. To help relieve constipation, try using a squatting position instead of sitting on the toilet. You can use a stool or a special device to elevate your feet and help you get into the correct position.

15. Consider surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve chronic constipation. Surgery may be recommended if other treatments have not been effective or if there is an underlying medical condition that is causing the constipation. Talk to your doctor about whether surgery may be a good option for you.

16. Get regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with your doctor can help identify and treat underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your constipation. Your doctor can also monitor your overall health and make recommendations for lifestyle changes or treatments as needed.

17. Avoid processed foods: Processed foods are often low in fiber and high in fat and sugar, which can contribute to constipation. To help relieve constipation, try to eat a diet that is rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

18. Don’t rely on laxatives: While laxatives can be helpful in relieving constipation, they should not be relied on long-term. Overuse of laxatives can lead to dependence and may cause side effects such as diarrhea, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

In summary, there are several things you can do to help relieve constipation, including increasing your fiber intake, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. Natural remedies, over-the-counter medications, and addressing underlying medical conditions may also be helpful. It’s important to practice good toilet habits, manage stress, and keep a food diary to identify foods that may be contributing to your constipation. Getting enough sleep, avoiding certain medications, and not ignoring the urge to go can also help relieve constipation. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve chronic constipation. By taking steps to relieve constipation, you can improve your digestive health and overall well-being. Remember to talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you and to get regular check-ups to monitor your health.