Health Magazine March/April 2016 | Page 29

SOLUTIONS TO KEEP CONSTIPATION AT BAY Watermelon can help: Full of water, watermelon helps to move food through the bowels. Magnesium Supplements: High dose magnesium supplements are safe to take during pregnancy and can really save an expecting mom who hasn’t been able to have a bowel movement for several days at a time. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has been used for centuries and helps soothe frazzled nerves, helps with insomnia – another woe for pregnant women – and it also has a generally calming effect. Drink no more than two cups a day, though, since there are untested rumors that it can cause miscarriage in higher doses. High-Fiber Foods: Aim to consume more whole-grain cereals and breads, brown rice, beans, and fresh fruits and vegetables every day. Wheat Bran: Add a few tablespoons of unprocessed wheat bran to your cereal in the morning and follow it with a glass of water though it may take a few days befo re you notice a difference. Water: Be sure to drink plenty of water – at least six to eight glasses a day. Some people find that drinking a warm liquid right after waking up helps get things moving. Partake in Regular Exercise: Walking, swimming and yoga can all help ease constipation and leave you feeling more fit and healthy. The Urge: Never put off going to the bath- room when you feel the urge. Change Your Angle: There are yoga poses that mimic many postures pregnant women are taught for giving birth. These poses are also really helpful with constipation. When your knees are at a 90-degree angle, everything is helped along quite well. H (Credit: www.naturalsociety.com) Mar/Apr 2016 27