Natural ways to relieve constipation

Constipation may involve hard stools, straining, fewer bowel movements or a feeling that the bowel has not emptied. It can follow a change in routine, low fluid intake, limited activity, or too little fibre. Some medicines and conditions such as hypothyroidism can also slow bowel movement. Constipation is a symptom, so its cause is not always the same.

Drink fluids regularly unless a clinician has told you to restrict them. Add fibre slowly through vegetables, fruit, beans, oats or wholegrain foods; increasing it abruptly can cause bloating. A daily walk may encourage bowel activity. When you feel the urge, allow privacy and time, and place your feet on a low support so your knees sit above your hips. Keep a simple note of foods, medicines and stool changes if the problem recurs. Nutrition Counselling may help you build a suitable eating pattern.

Arrange medical advice if constipation keeps returning, does not improve with self-care, or begins after a new medicine. Seek urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass gas, black or bloody stool, or unexplained weight loss. Dehydration can accompany poor intake and needs attention when there is marked thirst, dizziness or very little urine.

Could a medicine, thyroid problem or bowel condition be contributing? Which fibre and fluid changes suit my health? Should I use a short-term laxative, and how should it be taken? What symptoms mean I should seek urgent care?