Relieving Constipation: Best Foods, Remedies, and Stool Softeners

Relieving constipation in adults and babies often involves dietary interventions like prune juice, olive oil, and fiber powders. Learn the differences between laxatives and stool softeners for safe, effective relief.

Close-up of a cut open pumpkin on a cutting board with a knife

Squash & Constipation

Published Aug,14 2017 | By Kim Joyce

Constipation is most simply defined as infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stools, which are fairly common gastrointestinal problems. According to MayoClinic.com, lifestyle changes such as exercising more, drinking more fluids and eating high-fiber foods can help prevent and alleviate constipation.

Kim Joyce has been a journalist for more than 20 years, specializing in healthy foods and environmental health. She also served as communications director for the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges and production editor for Scholars Press. Joyce holds a B.A. in environmental studies and analysis, as well as an M.F.A. in creative writing from California State University, Chico.