How to improve my bowel movement - #10217

Your digestion issues—constipation, bloating, and acidity—are likely related to stress and poor lifestyle habits, which can also trigger acne. Start by drinking 2–3 liters of water daily, eating fiber-rich foods (like fruits, vegetables, oats), and avoiding spicy, fried, and processed food. For long-term relief, reduce stress through daily walking, yoga, or meditation, and consult a gastroenterologist if symptoms persist despite these changes.

To address constipation and improve your digestion, start with evaluating your dietary habits and hydration. Increase your intake of fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. These can help add bulk to your stool and promote smoother movement through your digestive tract. Aim for around 20 to 30 grams of fiber a day, but increase this amount gradually to prevent exacerbating bloating. Stay hydrated by drinking sufficient water throughout the day, as fluids help fiber work effectively and prevent stools from becoming hard and difficult to pass. Regular physical activity, like walking or yoga, can stimulate bowel function too, so try incorporating daily exercise routines that fit into your schedule. Stress management also plays a significant role, as stress can impact digestive health; consider practices such as mindfulness, deep-breathing exercises, or other stress-relieving activities that resonate with you. Regarding the bloating and acidity, keep an eye on trigger foods that might exacerbate these symptoms, such as caffeine, spicy foods, and carbonated drinks, possibly avoiding or reducing them to see if your symptoms improve. If you notice that certain foods commonly worsen your symptoms, try keeping a food and symptom diary to identify patterns and reduce those foods correspondingly. Since acne may sometimes be linked to digestion or dietary triggers, addressing these digestive issues can contribute to better skin health over time. Persistent or severe symptoms, like chronic constipation, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, as they can rule out any underlying conditions needing attention. If bowel changes represent a significant, sudden departure from normal patterns, or if there’s blood in your stools, reach out to a healthcare provider promptly to exclude serious conditions. Over-the-counter options like bulk-forming laxatives can be used short-term if needed, but they should not substitute for dietary adjustments. Ultimately, address lifestyle factors alongside dietary choices for a more comprehensive approach to managing and improving your bowel movements and general digestion.