Natural and conventional treatment of constipation involves the use of laxatives.  Just because a laxative is natural does not mean that you cannot become dependant on it.

Bulk forming agents increase the bulk and water content of stool.  They are the only laxatives that are safe to use every day.  Psyllium, bran, flaxseeds, apple pectin and chicory root are examples of natural bulk formers.

Stool softeners soften fecal matter so that it passes more easily.  Pharmaceutical stool softeners, like mineral oil and docusate sodium, should not be taken daily because they can decrease vitamin absorption, alter drug concentrations and cause liver damage.  Natural stool softeners are cold pressed oils.  They also provide essential fatty acids for the health of the intestinal cells.

Osmotic agents pull more water into the intestine to stimulate bowel movements.  They can cause dependency with repeated use.  Examples are magnesium, milk of magnesia, Epsom salts and sorbitol. Stimulant laxatives irritate the intestine to cause a bowel movement.  They can cause damage and dependency with repeated usage.  Natural and pharmaceutical examples are bisacodyl, senna, cascara sagrada and castor oil.

Lifestyle changes to help with constipation include regular exercise and stress reduction.  Never suppress the urge to defecate.  Do not strain to pass stool because it can contribute to hemorrhoid formation.

Minimize straining by ensuring that your thighs are parallel to the floor when sitting on the toilet.  Use a footstool if necessary.

Tackling the emotional aspects of constipation should also be undertaken.  It can sometimes reflect the inability to “let go” of certain things that have happened in a person’s life.  Sometimes this emotional connection can even go back to trauma in childhood.  Abdominal massage and hydrotherapy can be helpful to regulate bowel movements.

Assess your diet for irritating substances that may contribute to constipation.  Perform intestinal cleansing to rid the colon of build-up and optimize its functioning.  Drink 8-10, 8oz glasses of water each day.  Start your day with a bowel stimulating glass of warm water with lemon juice.  Consume a low fat and high fibre diet.  Include fresh fruits (with skin) and vegetables, prunes, figs and whole grains in your diet.  Avoid dairy products, spicy food, fats, processed foods, salt, coffee and alcohol. 

The following list of supplements can be used for preventing and treating constipation.  Adult doses are given.   (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).