There are many commercial remedies available for treating constipation, but if you suffer from this ailment, you might want a natural remedy for gentle, effective relief. Dietitians recommend flaxseed for treating constipation due to its high fiber content. Flaxseed forms a gel in the stool that helps the body eliminate waste via peristalsis waves in the intestine.
Instructions
1. Use flaxseed, not flaxseed oil. While the oil has health benefits apart from relieving constipation, the seeds alone add the necessary bulk. You can choose organic flaxseed if available or purchase it in bulk to save money.
2. Start with the lowest recommended dose of flaxseed and give your body 48 hours to adjust to the bulk-producing effects. Adults can start with one tbsp. of bulk seed mixed into 8 oz. of water, working up to 3 tbsp. of seeds if needed.
3. Purchase whole flaxseeds for longer storage life, but grind them with a food processor or mortar and pestle before consumption. You can add flaxseeds to your breakfast cereal, yogurt or baked goods for variety.
4. Drink ample amounts of water. Flaxseed adds bulk to the stool by swelling after you consume it, so drinking eight glasses of water a day helps this swelling action. Add water to the flaxseeds and allow them to swell before ingestion if you have an irritable bowel condition like diverticulosis.
5. Take care if using flaxseed in addition to other constipation relieving supplements or laxatives. Flaxseed taken in combination with other constipation remedies can cause intestinal upset or nausea.
Tags: other constipation, treating constipation