To fix constipation fast, several effective methods can be used to stimulate bowel movements within a few hours:
- Take a fiber supplement such as psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) to add bulk to stool and help it move through the intestines.
- Eat high-fiber foods like oats, whole grain bread, fibrous fruits (apples, bananas), vegetables (broccoli, carrots), beans, and nuts.
- Drink plenty of water, ideally a glass before meals and on an empty stomach in the morning, to soften stool and promote bowel movement.
- Use stool softeners (such as docusate sodium) or lubricant laxatives (like mineral oil) to make stool easier to pass.
- Try fast-acting remedies like enemas or rectal suppositories (glycerin or bisacodyl) to produce a bowel movement quickly.
- Assume a squatting position by placing feet on a stool while using the toilet to aid elimination.
- Engage in light exercise such as walking or yoga to stimulate bowel activity.
- Natural remedies like prune juice, lemon water, olive oil, or stewed apricots can also help due to their stool-softening and stimulating effects.
If constipation persists or is severe, medical attention should be sought. With these methods, relief can often be achieved quickly, within hours.
