Constipation is no fun! No one wants to talk about it, but it is true! Constipation leaves you feeling lousy, bloated, irritated and miserable. While constipation can be a normal part of your bodily functions (or lack thereof), it can take a toll on your body. Most of these homemade laxatives are safe to use for anyone, especially pregnant woman, who often suffer from constipation during their 9-month journey. Forget the store-bought brands of laxatives and opt to make your own. Below is a list of homemade laxatives that will have you using the bathroom in no time.
Olive Oil
Back in the old country (Italy), people who suffered from constipation swore up and down that the key to regaining normal bowl movements was drinking oil. Now you cannot just find any oil and drink it, one of the best olive oils to relieve constipation is Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Forget about sprinkling some onto bread and eating it. This EVOO needs to be taken in the morning before you eat or drink anything. Drink one tablespoon of this EVOO and your body will shortly resume its bowel movements.
Increase Fiber Intake
Sometimes it is a change in your diet that makes your body feel constipated. Adding or increasing more fiber into your diet can help restore your bowel movements. Foods such as oatmeal and flax seeds are high in fatty acids and fiber, which can help stimulate your body. Make sure not to overload on the fiber because it can cause diarrhea and we want to solve one problem, not create a new one.
Plums
For many infants and toddlers, constipation can be a normal part of their daily life. While an adult can take something for their problem, infants do not have much to say in the matter (literally). If you notice that you or your infant/toddler is constipated, then eat some plums. Most infants will enjoy the pureed plums and it will help them release a bowl movement. Plums are rich of potassium, iron, vitamins, and fiber which make them the perfect homemade laxative.
Water
If you are a picky eater but are suffering from constipation, try increasing your water intake. While increasing your water intake may make you feel more bloated, the offset is that the water helps soften the stool. Increase your intake during the morning to allow your body time to absorb more water, this will help breakdown the stool throughout the day.
Cayenne Pepper
Why not add a little spice to your life? Sprinkle a little cayenne pepper into your daily meals and you will notice a difference in your body. Cayenne Pepper helps increase the enzymes in your body, which help fight out constipation.
Castor Oil
We mentioned drinking raw olive oil to help with constipation, but castor oil helps do the trick as well. This is safe to use on adults and children. Simply add 1 teaspoon of castor oil to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bedtime. During your sleep, your stool will soften and allow you to release a bowel movement by morning.
Prunes
There is a reason why you always see prunes, prune juice or dried prunes while visiting at a nursing home. Elderly people are more prone to constipation and a daily intake of prunes helps keep their digestive system in line. Prunes are safe for adults, children and pregnant women to eat or drink. Prunes are full of antioxidants and help decrease heart disease.
Beans
Head to the supermarket and fill your cart with cans of kidney beans, lentils and cannellini beans. Whether you eat these right out of the can or cook them to make a delicious pasta dish, these beans with help increase your bowel movements.
Apples or Apple Cider
It is true what they say, “an apple a day, keeps the doctor away”. If you are suffering from constipation, then apples or apple cider are a perfect way to relive you of this annoyance. Apples contain pectin, which is a natural laxative.
Berries
Whether you enjoy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, they are all high in antioxidants which helps clear your colon of unwanted friends. Add these berries to your desserts or meals because they are a safe and healthy way to reduce constipation.
Try any of these natural and homemade laxatives and your body will be as good as new!