Constipation is a disorder of the digestive system as a consequence of which an individual has difficulty with his bowel movements. In some people it may mean irregular bowel movements, while in others bowel-movements may be very hard and painful.

Constipation can be caused by various reasons like bad food habits, irregular meals, tension, depression, acute emotional problems and even change in weather. Different people have different causes for being constipated.

The illness can be treated and cured in many ways depending on how serious the problem is. In most cases home remedies are the best means to relieve the problem.

Some of the common remedies for relieving constipation are:

• Taking a glass of warm milk a bedtime; This is said to be a good remedy for giving you regular bowel movements
• Drinking two glasses of warm water early in the morning followed by a short walk can relieve you of irregular stools.
• Consuming two spoons of Aloe gel is another means of relieving the condition
• Including a lot of fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet; fruits and vegetables rich in fiber will increase roughage in the body, as a result of which bowel movements are more regular and less painful. Fruits like guava, orange, papaya, prunes and grapes, and vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, asparagus and cabbage help to improve digestion.
• The regular practice of yoga is also said to relieve stress and depression and as a result help constipation in such patients.
• There area a number of laxatives made from natural ingredients like flax seed, husks of different cereals and fenugreek are said to provide relief.
• Be active; medical researches have proved that constipation is more prevalent in people who are more inactive.

If the problem still persists one may have to resort to medical aid such as the use of chemical laxatives, but remember this should be resorted to only if all else fails.