Eat More Fiber

Found in many fruits, vegetables, and whole grain breads and cereals, fiber helps your body develop soft, bulky stools. In addition to adding healthy fiber to your diet, try to avoid over-processed foods with little fiber, such as chips, pizza, ice cream, frozen dinners, and instant potatoes.

Drink Adequate Fluids and Get Plenty of Exercise

Keeping your stools soft and easy to pass requires plenty of fluids. Concentrate on drinking unsweetened fruit juices, herbal teas, and just plain water, as caffeine- and

alcohol-containing beverages tend to dry out your system. Exercising every day may help prevent and relieve constipation. Check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

Consult a Doctor and Don’t Ignore the Urge Ask your Doctor or Pharmacist if medications are causing your constipation as there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications known to be associated with constipation. When the

urge comes, pay attention. People with busy

schedules and who don’t want to interrupt their work are just a few examples of those who sometimes don’t stop and take the time to have a bowel movement. Repeatedly ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement, can actually make you lose the

ability to feel that urge, which in turn, can lead to constipation.