Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems, although it is a symptom that affects women more than men, especially during pregnancy as a consequence of the hormonal changes suffered by the former. However, people over 60 years of age also suffer from these types of problems to a greater extent.
It is a common problem that can end up leading to almost chronic constipation, and it is not only related to diet, as is commonly believed, but its appearance can also be related to travel or when spending several days away from home. , which are situations in which the symptom can worsen.
Fortunately, there are different home remedies that can be used to avoid constipation, including an ingredient that can be added to coffee in the morning and is endorsed by nutritionist Sandra Moñino (@nutricionat_).
In a podcast by the latter, together with the journalist María Pérez Espín, they offer different advice on food and nutrition to their followers, and in this case they have referred to a simple trick with which to say goodbye to this condition that can generate so many discomfort.
The trick in question is to take a spoonful of coconut oil in the morning, on an empty stomach or add it to coffee, Being a food that can also provide energy, which makes it ideal for all those people who practice sports on an empty stomach or early in the morning. As if this were not enough, if mixed with salt or baking soda, it can also be used as an exfoliant in the shower to get rid of impurities on the skin.
Other natural remedies to prevent constipation
Any modification in the routine, such as time changes or vacation periods, can have a great impact on the body, since eating routines are altered and can cause changes in meals or sleeping hours, all of which can lead to cases of constipation. .
Fortunately, in addition to opting for coconut oil, there are other natural remedies that you can turn to in order to combat and prevent constipation, which is mainly caused by the absence or deficiency of fiber in the diet, so if you do not consume enough fruit or vegetables, it can lead to suffering from this condition. Likewise, it can also be caused by the intake of certain medications.
Some natural remedies to prevent constipation are:
- Fennel juice: Fennel is one of the most effective foods to combat a constipation crisis, since it helps reduce gas and helps food to be digested more easily. A pleasant way to take it is in juice, for which you only have to add a sprig of fennel, some mint leaves, two Fuji or Granny Smith apples and a glass of water to a container, crushing everything to Make a juice that you can drink several times a week.
- Flax seeds: Flax seeds, when soaked, release a liquid with a gel texture that facilitates intestinal transit. Adding flaxseed gel to your recipes can help you. To prepare flaxseed gel, it is recommended to soak the seeds the night before, and for a more appetizing result, it is advisable to pour the seeds over yogurt and leave it in the refrigerator overnight, and the next day, drink yogurt with flax seeds. linen, noticing its immediate effect.
- Apple compote: If you want a remedy for constipation that, in addition to being effective, is appetizing and has a great flavor, applesauce may be the perfect option. The apple with skin is rich in fiber and pectin, a substance that contributes to the proper functioning of the intestines, which makes it one of the great allies for those who cannot go to the bathroom. A delicious way to take it is by cooking an apple with the skin, it is important to leave the skin on, since, otherwise, it could cause an astringent effect.
Once it has been cooked, it can be eaten whole or crushed to make an applesauce that can be sweetened using a teaspoon of honey, which also helps in intestinal and digestive processes. - Prunes: Including prunes in your diet will increase the frequency with which you go to the bathroom and thus be able to end constipation quickly, while at the same time improving the consistency of your stool due to the concentration of fiber and sorbitol. For this home remedy, at least 150 grams of prunes should be included in your breakfast for 4-5 days. If you don’t want to eat them alone, you should add them to a salad or dessert to make them easier to eat.
- Red fruits: Red fruits, such as cherries, blueberries, blackberries or strawberries, have antioxidant properties that, together with the fiber they contain, help improve intestinal transit and digestion. They can be taken naturally in juices, fruit cocktails or even adding them to a salad.
These are some of the most effective home remedies for constipation, although there are many other solutions such as eating wheat bran, yogurt with oats or an infusion of arraclán or psyllium.