Contrary to popular belief, it is normal not to defecate every day. Normally, bowel movements can range from three times a day to three times a week.

Cures for constipation are readily available. You can usually prevent constipation by changes in your diet and lifestyle. If you have chronic constipation, however it is important to consult a physician to learn ways to prevent it.

Below you will find facts and remedies for constipation. These remedies include methods that you may not be familiar with such as diaphragmatic breathing and biofeedback. These are methods which can be integrated into conventional lifestyle changes to help normalize your bowel function and make you feel better. This site also features links and a featured video therapy session - "Constipation Blues."

1. Over 4 million have it frequently
2. $725 million spent on laxative products each year

1. Consume high-fiber foods, such as: avocado, beans, peas, brown rice, broccoli, kale, oats and bran cereals. See Common Sense Health for other sources, including fruits and vegetables.
2. Add flax seed to bread and pancake recipes. Drink psyllium seed beverages for soluble fiber.
3. Drink plenty of water- 8 - 8 ounces portions per day. www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283
4. Exercise regularly - simply getting up and moving helps, 10-15 minute walks, swimming and aerobic exercises if you are fit. http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/exercise-curing-constipation-via-movement
5. Take a laxative (only if a physician recommends).
6. Learn diaphragmatic breathing, which can massage the abdominal area and initiate peristaltic movement of the intestinal muscles.http://www.personalmed.com/constipation_diagnosis.php http://chestofbooks.com/health/natural-cure/Henry-Lindlahr/Nature-Cure/Diaphragmatic-Breathing.html
7. Learn biofeedback / diaphragmatic breathing methods.
8. Aloe vera latex has been approved for treating constipation by Germany's regulatory agency for herbs. There are laxative chemicals in the gel and in the latex. The recommended dosage is 50 to 200 milligrams of aloe latex. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/eto/content/eto_5_3x_aloe.asp?sitearea=eto
9. Supplements that are natural laxatives include vitamin C and magnesium, with recommended dosage up to 1,000 and 500 mg/day, respectively. Andrew Weil, MD. 2004. Natural Health, Natural Medicine: The Complete Guide to Wellness and Self-Care and Optimum Health.
10. See a funny video that gives you a belly laugh. The working of the diaphragm massages the intestinal area and can help with bowel movements.