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Dealing with an uncomfortable bout of constipation?
What causes constipation?
Diet and lifestyle
Dr. Robbins explains that dietary and lifestyle factors are the most common reasons for constipation.
registered dietitian and owner of BZ Nutrition
They include:
2.
Medical conditions
Dr. Robbins says that certain medical conditions can cause constipation or make people more prone to it.
Some examples include:
3.
Medications
Some medications might cause constipation.
Cayenne pepper
GastroenterologistNiket Sonpal, MD, recommends cayenne pepper for his patients that have a lot of indigestion.
Cayenne stimulates the taste buds, which in turn stimulates saliva production, Dr. Sonpal says.
All three chemicals help digestion and help patients feel less bloated after meals.
Read: Constipated AF.
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5.
registered dietitian and owner of BZ Nutrition
Turmeric
For Dr. Sonpal, turmeric is one spice he simply cant live without.
For me personally its something I take dailyin cooking as well as a supplement, he says.
Besides being lauded for its naturalanti-inflammatory spiceproperties, turmeric is a natural laxative.
So, know that yourgolden milk latteis MD-approved in more ways than one.
Cinnamon
The perfectgut-friendly coffeemix-in, cinnamon is one of Dr. Robbins favorite spices for constipation.
The spice also has impressiveanti-inflammatory benefits.
Cardamom
Fragrant and delicious, Dr. Robbins says cardamom is another digestion superhero that can help with gassiness.
Plus, its a great way to use more of this ingredient, considerspicesdoexpire fasterthan you may think.
Better digestion, and youll have a better chance at fighting constipation.
Nutmeg
Moderation is key when it comes to nutmeg consumption, since it can bepoisonous7in large quantities.
Anise seeds contain compounds that can help relax the digestive tract and relieve constipation, Dr. Robbins says.
This is used to treat gastrointestinal problems including constipation due to its gentle laxative effect, Dr. Robbins says.
Which spice is best for constipation?
The best spice for constipation is technically an herb: senna.
It functions bystimulating intestinal peristalsis and altering water and electrolyte transport in the colon8.
This effect is well-documented in studies and recognized by health authorities including the FDA, she says.
It shouldonly be used on a short-term basisand as directed on the package label or by your health-care provider.
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