Dealing with constipation or irregular bowel movements is not fun. But you should know you’re not alone. Healthline explains, “constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in the world.” In fact, about 42 million individuals are affected by constipation in the U.S. alone.
Over-the-counter remedies may be effective, however, they can lead to unwanted side effects like cramps and nausea. Thankfully, there are plenty of natural remedies you can try to help relieve constipation and encourage regular bowel movements. Here are natural stool softeners you can try…
Eat High-Fiber Foods
First, and foremost you need to add more fiber to your diet. Why? Simply because fiber (especially insoluble fiber) adds bulk to your stool and in turn, relieves constipation. Some great examples of insoluble fiber include dark leafy vegetables, fruit skins, seeds, and nuts.
In contrast, soluble fiber is important too. This type of fiber soaks up moisture from food and helps slow digestion. If you consume soluble fiber daily, this will help you become more regular and help prevent constipation in the future. Some great examples include apples, oranges, carrots, oatmeal, and flaxseed.