Constipation

Overview

Constipation is commonly defined as infrequent, hard stools, straining, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. While often related to diet and daily habits, ongoing or severe symptoms can indicate underlying conditions that merit evaluation.

Causes

• Low fibre intake, inadequate hydration
• Irregular meals, highly processed or very spicy/fried foods
• Sedentary routine; delaying the urge to pass stool
• Stress, disrupted sleep
• Medications (iron, some painkillers, antacids, etc.)

Symptoms

• Hard, dry stools; straining; incomplete evacuation
• Abdominal discomfort/bloating, flatulence
• Decreased appetite, nausea, reflux or belching

Ayurvedic Perspective (Supportive)

Classical descriptions attribute constipation to impaired digestive fire and aggravated Vāta, leading to dryness and obstruction in the GI tract. Supportive care emphasises warm, freshly prepared meals; adequate hydration; gentle daily movement; and routines that encourage regular bowel habits.

Ayurvedic measures complement—not replace—medical advice for persistent or complicated cases.

Diet & Lifestyle

• Prioritise fibre: cooked vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts/seeds.
• Hydrate: ~7–8 glasses daily; prefer warm/room-temperature fluids.
• Establish a relaxed, unhurried morning routine; regular mealtimes and sleep.
• Daily walks 20–30 minutes; gentle core/yoga and breathwork can help.
• Limit ultra-processed foods; reduce very spicy, greasy, or heavy late-night meals.

Some Home Remedies (Comfort)

• At bedtime, a warm glass of water; some individuals find fibre (e.g., psyllium husk) helpful—start low and increase gradually.
• Simple spice mix (as tolerated): tiny pinch of dried ginger + black pepper + long pepper with lukewarm water.
• A mid-morning warm vegetable soup (spinach/tomato) can aid routine.

If you’re on medication or have heart/kidney disease, pregnancy, or special diets, confirm any remedy with your clinician first.

When to Seek Care

Prompt evaluation is advisable with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, rectal bleeding or black stools, unexplained weight loss, iron-deficiency anaemia, new constipation in older age, or no improvement despite initial measures.

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