Some factors associated with our lifestyle, such as diet or lack of exercise, can cause constipation and hard stools. In most cases, home remedies can help.
- Why can you have hard stools?
- How to Soften Stool in Minutes with Natural Solutions
Stool should be soft so that it is easy to expel. However, they can occasionally be harsh for a variety of reasons, from a lack of hydration to a diet that doesn’t contain enough fruits and vegetables.
Hard stools are harder to pass and can cause discomfort and even pain when going to the bathroom. Faced with this problem, many people wonder how to soften the stool in minutes and the truth is that various natural remedies can help soften them in a short time.
WHY CAN YOU HAVE HARD STOOLS?
Hard, lumpy stools are a common symptom of constipation, which occurs when the movement of stool through the intestinal tract is slower than normal and stool builds up in the colon for longer than normal.
While the stool is in the colon, it absorbs its water, making it harder and drier. This makes them more difficult to expel and can cause pain or discomfort during their evacuation.
One of the main causes of constipation is following a low-fiber diet. Fiber (which is mainly present in fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains) increases the volume of feces and softens them, which facilitates their passage through the intestine.
Other causes of constipation and hard stools include lack of physical exercise (which decreases bowel activity and can lead to stool buildup in the colon), lack of hydration, use of some medications, hormonal changes (in pregnancy or menopause), and some diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes or hypothyroidism.
Ignoring the urge to go to the bathroom can also make the stool harder and harder to expel, as the colon will absorb more water and make it harder and drier.
HOW TO SOFTEN STOOL IN MINUTES WITH NATURAL SOLUTIONS
Drinking plenty of water (at least 8 glasses a day) and following a diet rich in fiber are two key factors to soften the stool and facilitate its passage through the intestine. In addition, there are several natural remedies to soften the stool, such as:
- Olive oil has laxative properties and can act as a natural lubricant for stool and soften it. Its monounsaturated fatty acids can stimulate bowel movement and encourage bowel regularity. Try taking a tablespoon of olive oil on an empty stomach or before sleeping, but remember that it is a punctual remedy and you should not abuse it since, although it is very healthy, it provides many calories.
- Castor oil is also a natural laxative that helps soften stool and stimulate bowel movement. You should not exceed the recommended dose because it can cause diarrhea and cramping.
- Plums are rich in fiber and contain sorbitol, a substance that acts as a natural laxative by drawing water into the intestines. Drinking a glass of prune juice or eating some plums (fresh or dried) will help soften the stool and ease its passage through the colon, but you should keep in mind that an excess of sorbitol can cause diarrhea.
- Flaxseeds contain mucilage, a type of soluble fiber that forms a gel in the intestine that helps soften stool and promote bowel regularity. Let the seeds soak overnight to take the mucilage gel along with the water the next morning.
- Pure aloe vera gel or juice can help retain water and soften stool.
If you have hard stools or constipation often or if you notice pain, bleeding or any other unusual symptoms, you should see a health care professional.
