Natural Stool Softener - Natural laxatives to avoid hard stool
Stool softeners are meant to ease constipation. They add more moisture to the stool in order to make excretion easier. Stool softeners can be taken in liquid, capsule or tablets. When you are suffering from constipation, it is recommended to take natural stool softener instead of a harsh or commercial laxative that has side effects and may not be good for certain medical conditions or if you are pregnant.
Constipation may be due to anxiety and stress as well as eating foods such as meats and dairy products, not getting enough water into your body, can be a result of certain medications or underlying medical conditions. If you are not being able to move your bowels for more than a week, it is best to see your doctor so that you will know what is causing it and you will know what to do. You may be asked to take some prescriptions or go for a natural stool softener depending on the severity of your constipation.
How to Use Stool Softeners
Always make it a priority to abide by package directions and adhere to the recommended dosage. In case you were given capsules or tablets always make sure you to consume a full 8 ounce glass of water. Irrespective of the kind of stool softener remedy, always remember to have plenty of liquid during the day.
Natural Stool Softener Foods - Constipation stool softeners
Water is the most natural constipation stool softener. If you consume 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, it allows your colon to use the fluid in your stool to help transfer fecal matter into the large intestines. Water is reabsorbed for hydration and for the balancing of your electrolytes. Not enough water or fluid intake may result to dry and hard stool. A cup of coffee every morning can help you stimulate your metabolism and may serve as a mild diuretic as well. Another excellent natural laxative that you may try is prune juice.
How to soften stool with herbal stool softeners
Fiber is also one of the best natural stool softener as it helps you regulate the fluid in the stool by adding bulk to fecal matter thus attracting water to it. Fresh fruits and vegetables, bran, and whole grain foods are excellent sources of fiber. To promote healthy intestinal flora and aids in regularity of bowel movements, yogurt with its probiotics is recommended as well.
Natural Stool Softener - How to alleviate constipation with exercise
Another natural stool softener is an exercise or any physical activity that can increase your metabolism and moves stuff around your digestive system to help you avoid constipation. If you are seeking temporary and infrequent relief, a mineral oil can be taken before bedtime so that it can work overnight. Senna used in the hospital for constipation may also be purchased and added in a tasty tea. Remember that hot fluids can help you initiate bowel movements.
Although a natural stool softener is highly recommended instead of the medications or other over-the-counter products, you must still be patient as most of it take effect from 1 to 3 days after consumption. It is also best to take at least 8 ounces of water or juice before bedtime so that your body is still hydrated overtime.
Side Effects of Stool Softeners
Some individuals encounter mild side effects such as abdominal cramps, nausea, and bloating. You may also get some throat irritation due to liquid medications. If you experience such mild symptoms, stop using the medicine you were prescribed. Also consult your doctor right away if you get severe symptoms such as:
- Difficult to breathe or swallow
- Skin rash
- Fever
- Pain in abdomen or cramps
- Vomiting