Written by: Dr Subita Alagh
16 July 2025
Struggling with constipation, hard stools, or bloating? Your gut might be moving slower than it should.
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Also called sluggish bowel, it means your colon isn’t pushing waste efficiently. This leads to irregular and often painful bowel movements.
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🔹 Low fiber intake 🔹 Overuse of laxatives 🔹 IBS or eating disorders 🔹 Certain medications like narcotics 🔹 Poor hydration or lack of exercise
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Add more fiber: ✔ Prunes, apples, broccoli ✔ Almond milk, chia seeds ✔ Whole fruits & veggies Also, increase water intake.
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Laxatives work in different ways, some add bulk, others soften stool, draw in water (like milk of magnesia), or stimulate movement (like senna). Avoid frequent use to prevent gut dependency.
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Probiotic foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut can improve digestion. You can also try probiotic supplements.
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Light exercise and yoga promote bowel movement. Even daily walking helps "wake up" your gut.
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Sitting in a squatting position during bowel movements may ease the process.
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See a doctor if you have: -Blood in stool -Severe abdominal pain -Ongoing constipation or diarrhea -Fever or dizziness
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