When "you gotta go, you gotta go," right? Well, for some people, the urge to go "#2" doesn't always end with a flush. Constipation can literally stop you up leading to belly bloating and dire discomfort.
Not that you don't already know, but for a refresher, as per WebMD, "Being constipated means your bowel movements are tough or happen less often than normal." According to Greatist, 42 million Americans deal with constipation every year. Are you one of them? There's no need to "hold it in" when so many others are in the same boat.
You need not sit on the toilet for hours feeling blocked up and miserable any longer. There are certain foods that can help "move things along" and have you back to your regular bathroom schedule in no time. Not only are these foods great for preventing and relieving constipation, but they are good for you too.
Broccoli
When you are backed up, reach for the green stuff. Broccoli, in particular, has 5.1 grams of insoluble fiber per cup, as per Greatist. Eat it raw, steamed, in a salad, or stir-fried, just get it in yo belly! Broccoli is also chock-full of potassium and has a ton of vitamin C. Take that Mr. Orange! Broccoli is super-low-cal and highly nutritious. Chop some broccoli and get going (literally).
Prunes
Forget the "grandma" stereotype and munch on a few prunes regularly. They are naturally sweet and delicious and have about 1 gram of fiber per prune, as per Health. Along with the bowel-benefits of fiber, Health adds that prunes also contain fructans and sorbitol – fermentable sugars which have laxative qualities. Chop up a few prunes and stir into oatmeal (also great for relieving constipation), eat them with some yogurt, or munch them on their own. Prune juice is also a good choice when you cannot find whole prunes at your grocer.
Popcorn
Solve your constipation conundrum and enjoy your favorite snack at once! Yep, popcorn, as per Health, is a great choice for snacking when you are backed up. 3 cups of air-popped popcorn boasts 3 grams of fiber, and is less than 100 calories. Sprinkle on a dash of salt and pepper or your favorite herbs and spices and tune into your favorite rom-com. By the time the credits roll, you'll be in the loo doing your business!
No more excuses for being blocked up. Eat to keep things flowing and you'll be "going" with regularity.