Colon Hydrotherapy for Constipation Relief
Find constipation relief with colon hydrotherapy. Gently cleanse your bowel and relieve constipation by helping improve bowel movement when constipation occurs.
Constipation is one of those things almost everyone deals with but no one really talks about, at least not openly. Unfortunately, the impact it has on how we feel day-to-day is bigger than most people realize. From the stubborn bloat that doesn’t go away, to the foggy brain, irritability, and the that feeling of not feeling right in your body, it adds up. The more we’ve worked with clients, the more we see how often this quiet struggle is dismissed, covered up with over-the-counter laxatives, or simply ignored.
There’s been a noticeable rise in chronic constipation, especially in adults who are otherwise “doing everything right.” Some are taking fiber supplements, drinking water, even eating their veggies, and yet, they’re still not experiencing regular bowel movements or feeling like their body is actually working with them. And because there’s so much shame or awkwardness tied to talking about poop, most people end up trying every constipation remedy they can find in the pharmacy before they even consider what might be causing it in the first place.
That’s where we at Fernz Wellness come in. We're a wellness studio in Los Angeles specializing in colon hydrotherapy and electro-lymphatic drainage, and we’ve helped countless people find relief and restore a sense of balance in their gut. We got into this work not just because of clinical training, but from lived experience.
In my early twenties, after having my gallbladder removed, I experienced extreme constipation, digestive issues, and dramatic weight fluctuations. I was told to “eat normally” and “you don’t need your gallbladder anyway.” But my body said otherwise.
Eventually, through my own search for constipation relief, I discovered colon hydrotherapy, and it changed everything. It didn’t fix me, but it helped my body do what it was designed to do. It helped my system pass stool more comfortably, reduced bloat, and gave me back a sense of ease. That’s what we want to offer to others: tools that support your body so you can stop feeling stuck and start feeling good again.
Let’s talk about what’s really going on with constipation, why it’s happening so often, and what you can do about it, starting today.
What Is Constipation and Why It Happens
If you’ve ever had that heavy, uncomfortable feeling in your belly where you just can’t go, no matter how badly you want to, that’s constipation. And you’re far from alone. We see this all the time, people struggling to poop regularly, or going days between bowel movements, feeling bloated, foggy, moody, or even panicky. It’s more than a bathroom problem, it’s a whole-body problem.
Constipation is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. But we like to go a little deeper than that. If you’re sitting on the toilet and straining, if your stool is dry, hard, or difficult to pass, or if you never really feel “done,” that’s also constipation, even if you’re technically going a few times a week. There’s also chronic constipation, which means the problem lasts for weeks or months, and it’s often tied to deeper issues with the digestive tract or nervous system.
Then there’s occasional constipation, which most people have dealt with, like after a vacation, when you’re stressed out, or when your diet changes. But even occasional constipation isn’t something to brush off. When stool sits too long in the colon, it becomes harder and harder to pass, which can affect the rectum, the liver, and even your mood. The intestine is deeply connected to the brain, which is why people with constipation often say they feel foggy, unmotivated, or low energy. In fact, many of our clients have told us they didn’t realize how much their sluggish digestion was affecting their mental health until they started to find relief.
What’s important to know is your body is always trying to communicate with you. If you’re experiencing constipation, it’s a sign that something’s out of sync.
Reasons Why You May Have Constipation
Diet Low in Fiber
This is probably the most well-known cause, fiber is what gives stool its bulk and structure, and when we don’t eat enough of it, the stool becomes harder and slower to move through the colon. Many people think they’re getting enough fiber, but the average American only gets about 15 grams a day. We’re aiming for closer to 25-34 grams, depending on your age and gender. That’s a big gap.
Fiber-rich foods like leafy greens, chia seeds, lentils, pears, flax, and whole grains can really help prevent constipation. Psyllium husk is great because it’s gentle, and it bulks up stool while helping it retain water, making it easier to pass. But even with all the best intentions, some people need to ease into increasing their fiber intake. Too much, too fast can actually cause constipation, bloating and gas in some people if you’re not also drinking enough water.
Dehydration
This one is huge. And it’s easy to overlook. A lot of people think they’re hydrating just because they’re drinking something, but coffee and soda don’t count the same way as water. Your digestive tract needs water to keep everything moving, and when you’re dehydrated, your body starts pulling water out of the stool, making it dry, hard, and difficult to pass.
This is actually why a colon cleanse can be so effective, it introduces water directly into the colon, helping to soften and mobilize stuck stool. But even outside of sessions, you’ve got to be sipping water throughout the day. If you’re increasing your fiber but not drinking more water, it’s like adding bricks without any mortar. You need both.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Movement isn’t just good for your muscles, it’s essential for your digestive health, too. When we sit too much (and most of us do), it slows down the movement of stool through the colon. We’ve had clients who were doing everything else right, hydrating, eating fiber, using natural laxatives, but their bowels still felt sluggish. As soon as they started incorporating daily walks or gentle yoga, things changed.
Physical activity stimulates the intestine, and we’ve seen firsthand how something as simple as 20 minutes of movement a day can help relieve constipation in adults. It doesn’t have to be intense, just consistent.
Ignoring the Urge to Go
You’d be surprised how common this is. People ignore the urge to go to the bathroom because they’re busy, at work, or just don’t feel comfortable using public restrooms. But when you ignore that signal repeatedly, your body starts to quiet it. Over time, your rectum gets used to holding in stool, and it becomes harder to pass stool even when you finally get the chance.
This is why we encourage clients to honor their body’s cues, if you feel the urge, go. Create a routine around it if you can. Morning is the most natural time for a bowel movement, because the body is waking up and the digestive system is active. Don’t rush it, and don’t strain. Let your body lead.
See our article on bathroom anxiety here.
High-Fat or Processed Foods
There’s nothing wrong with having the occasional treat. But diets high in fried foods, processed snacks, and low-nutrient, high-fat meals can really constipate the system. These foods are often low in fiber and high in chemicals or additives that slow down digestion.
Clients have shared how cutting back just a little on processed food and swapping in more high-fiber foods made a big difference. And for those with more sensitive systems (especially anyone who’s had gallbladder removal), high-fat foods can really put a strain on digestion and cause constipation due to sluggish bile flow.
Stress and Mental Load
This one gets overlooked way too often. Stress doesn’t just live in the mind, it lands right in the gut. If you’ve ever been nervous and had to run to the bathroom, or felt emotionally heavy and couldn’t go for days, you’ve experienced the gut-brain connection.
Chronic stress affects the nervous system, which can either speed up or slow down the digestive system. And when we’re stuck in fight-or-flight mode, the body prioritizes survival, not digestion. That’s why practices like deep breathing, meditation, or even just slowing down at meals can help relieve constipation. It’s not all about what you eat, it’s also about how you feel when you eat.
Medications and Supplements
Certain meds are known to cause constipation in some people, including iron supplements, calcium, antacids, and some antidepressants. Even supplements that are supposed to help (like calcium or protein powders) can backfire if they’re not balanced with water and fiber.
If you suspect your medication is part of the problem, don’t stop taking it without guidance, but do talk to your doctor.
Colon Hydrotherapy and Constipation
When it comes to constipation relief, colon hydrotherapy is one of the most misunderstood but powerful tools out there. At Fernz Wellness, we specialize in this work, and what we’ve seen is that colon hydrotherapy isn’t just about going to the bathroom. It’s about restoring flow, both physically and energetically. It’s about giving the digestive system a break when everything feels stuck.
Colonic irrigation is a gentle method where warm, purified water is introduced into the colon (large intestine) through a small, disposable tube. The process is safe, private, and non-invasive. The water is introduced slowly and rhythmically, helping to soften and loosen stool that may have built up or hardened over time. Many of our clients are surprised at how calming and even relieving the experience can be, especially when they’ve tried everything from fiber supplements to laxatives with no real success.
This isn’t about flushing the body or forcing anything. We don’t use any drugs, chemicals, or stimulants. It’s just filtered water, carefully and professionally administered in a way that works with your body’s natural rhythm. That’s the beauty of it. It’s not a cure, and it won’t replace the need for daily dietary support or hydration. But it does support your body’s own ability to move stool through the colon, especially if your system has slowed down due to chronic constipation, stress, poor hydration, or a history of poor elimination habits.
During a session, as the water softens the stool and activates the digestive tract, the body often begins its own peristaltic movement, those natural waves of muscular contractions that move waste through the intestine. For people who’ve been backed up for days or even weeks, this can be a game-changer. We’ve seen clients walk out feeling lighter, clearer, and more energized, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
One of the things we always emphasize is hydration. Colon hydrotherapy works best when the body is hydrated, and it also supports hydration by introducing water into the colon where it can be absorbed. This helps with softening stool, making it easier to pass, and reducing the need for stimulant laxatives or harsh remedies that can sometimes cause cramping or dependency.
It’s important to know that colon hydrotherapy is a tool, not a crutch. It complements the work you do every day to support your digestive health. If you’re already working on your fiber intake, staying active, and drinking enough water, this therapy can amplify your efforts and help the body reestablish a healthier rhythm of regular bowel movements.
See our complete guide on colon cleaning for beginners here.
Soothe a Tense Gut and Support Digestion Naturally
Ginger and Peppermint Tea
When your belly is tight, bloated, or just not moving the way it should, sometimes the simplest home remedies can make the biggest difference. Ginger and peppermint tea are two of our favorites. Ginger helps to gently stimulate the digestive system, reduce gas, and soothe inflammation. Peppermint relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, which can help move stool through the colon more easily.
We often suggest sipping on one of these teas after meals or in the evening when your gut feels tense. They can be especially helpful if you're feeling crampy or bloated from constipation. Not only do they hydrate, but they bring calm to the nervous system.
Smaller, Frequent Meals
We get asked all the time whether it’s better to eat three big meals or several smaller ones. And when it comes to constipation, smaller, more frequent meals is best. Eating six mini meals a day helps keep the digestive system engaged without overwhelming it. It allows the body to break things down more thoroughly, and keeps bowel movements more regular.
Large meals can sometimes cause sluggishness or even trigger the gut to slow down. But small, nutrient-dense meals spaced throughout the day tend to be easier to digest, especially if you’re already experiencing constipation or discomfort. This also helps prevent the bloating and pressure that comes from overeating in one sitting.
Eating at the Same Time Daily
One of the simplest but most overlooked tools for constipation relief is having a consistent eating schedule. Our digestive tract loves routine. When we eat at roughly the same times each day, it helps train the body to anticipate digestion and elimination. This promotes regularity and reduces the stress that unpredictable eating patterns place on the system.
Juicing When Constipated
When your system is backed up, sometimes it just needs a break. That’s where juicing can be incredibly helpful. Fresh vegetable and fruit juices (especially ones with celery, cucumber, and a little ginger) are easy to absorb, super hydrating, and gentle on the digestive system. They allow the body to take in nutrients without doing the heavy work of breaking down solid food.
For clients dealing with chronic constipation or lots of bloat, a day or two of juicing can be like a reset button. It doesn’t mean you stop eating altogether, but swapping one or two meals for a fresh juice gives the colon time to release what it’s been holding without adding more strain.
Warm Lemon Water in the Morning
A cup of warm lemon water first thing in the morning is one of our favorite daily rituals. It wakes up the digestive system, stimulates bile flow, and helps kick-start a bowel movement. The warmth is soothing, and the lemon acts as a mild natural laxative that doesn’t overstimulate.
Belly Massage and Breathwork
So many people carry stress in their belly without realizing it. A few minutes of gentle belly massage, using circular motions around the colon area, can help release trapped gas, stimulate movement, and calm the nervous system.
See more natural remedies for constipation here.
Common Foods to Eat to Relieve Constipation
What you eat plays a major role in how often and how easily your body can pass stool. At Fernz Wellness, one of the first things we look at with our clients who are experiencing constipation is what their meals look like day to day, not just in terms of calories or nutrients, but in terms of digestive support. If you’re feeling sluggish, backed up, or bloated, there are specific foods that help encourage bowel movements naturally and gently. And just as importantly, there are foods that can slow things down without you even realizing it.
Prunes and Prune Juice
It might sound old-school, but there’s a reason prunes are still one of the most talked-about constipation remedies out there, they really do work. Prunes contain sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol that acts as a mild laxative by drawing water into the intestine, softening the stool, and helping to trigger movement. It’s essentially a natural osmotic laxative in food form. And it’s gentle. That’s why we often recommend them to people dealing with occasional constipation or even chronic constipation who want something quick and natural.
Prune juice can be just as effective, especially if you drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Some people respond well to a small glass daily, while others only need it occasionally. The key is to not overdo it. A few prunes or a small serving of juice can go a long way. And if you don’t love the taste on its own, blending it into a smoothie with a banana and a splash of almond milk can make it a lot more enjoyable.
High-Fiber Foods – Leafy Greens, Legumes, Chia, Flax
When it comes to preventing and treating constipation, fiber is non-negotiable. And not just any fiber, you want the kind that adds bulk and moisture to the stool, making it easier to pass through the colon. Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collards are fantastic because they’re packed with both fiber and water. Legumes like lentils, black beans, and chickpeas are also incredibly effective, they feed the good bacteria in your digestive tract and support smoother elimination.
Then there are seeds. Chia seeds and flaxseeds are true superstars when it comes to relieving constipation. When soaked, chia seeds form a gel-like texture that moves through the intestine gently, pulling water in and helping move stool through the colon without irritation. Flaxseeds are similar and also contain healthy fats that help lubricate the digestive system.
For clients struggling to get enough grams of fiber a day, we sometimes recommend starting with a tablespoon of ground flax or chia mixed into oatmeal or a smoothie. It’s an easy way to boost fiber intake without making dramatic changes all at once.
Whole Grains – Oats, Brown Rice, Barley
Whole grains are another go-to because they provide insoluble fiber, which acts like a broom through the digestive tract. Oats in particular are soothing to the gut and easy to digest, making them a great breakfast choice if you’re feeling constipated. Brown rice and barley offer both fiber and slow-burning carbohydrates, which help maintain energy while also encouraging regular bowel movements.
When working with clients who are used to white bread, pasta, or overly refined carbs, we often suggest simple swaps, steel-cut oats instead of instant, brown rice instead of white, or barley in soups instead of pasta. Over time, these changes help prevent constipation and support long-term digestive health.
Water-Rich Fruits – Melons, Kiwi, Oranges
One thing many people don’t realize is that hydration doesn’t just come from what you drink, it also comes from what you eat. Water-rich fruits like cantaloupe, watermelon, kiwi, and oranges are excellent for hydration and provide natural sugars and fiber that help keep things moving.
Kiwi, in particular, is one of our favorite fruits for constipation relief. It contains both insoluble and soluble fiber, and a unique enzyme called actinidin that supports digestion. We’ve had clients eat two kiwis a day for a week and report noticeable improvements in their ability to go to the bathroom more comfortably and regularly.
What to Avoid If You’re Constipated
Understanding what to eat is important, but knowing what to avoid is just as essential when it comes to finding constipation relief. We always encourage a gentle and sustainable approach, but there are a few habits and foods that can really work against you when your digestive system is already struggling.
High-Fat Processed Foods
These are a big reason why constipation occurs so frequently in modern diets. Fast food, frozen meals, and processed snacks are often low in fiber and high in unhealthy fats. This combination slows down digestion and can cause constipation in some people, especially if their fiber intake is already low. These foods don’t provide the bulk or hydration the body needs to move stool effectively through the colon.
Low-Fiber Snacks
Crackers, chips, sugary cereals, these are convenient but don’t offer much in the way of digestive health. When you fill up on low-fiber snacks, it can leave less room for the foods that actually support bowel movements. This can sneak up on people, especially those who are trying to eat lighter or snack during a busy day.
We’ve worked with clients who were unintentionally skipping out on fiber-rich foods, then wondering why their digestion felt sluggish. Even small changes, like swapping out a granola bar for a handful of almonds and dried apricots, can make a difference in supporting the movement of stool.
Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol both have a diuretic effect, meaning they draw water out of the body. And while a morning coffee can sometimes help stimulate a bowel movement, too much caffeine can dehydrate the system and contribute to hard, dry stool that’s difficult to pass.
Alcohol is even trickier, it slows down the digestive process, reduces hydration, and often disrupts your body's natural elimination rhythm. If you’re already dealing with chronic constipation, cutting back on both can help you find more consistency and ease in your digestion.
See more about the long term effects of alcohol on the digestive system here.
Natural Remedies and Alternatives to Laxatives
We know the temptation to reach for an over-the-counter laxative when you’re feeling uncomfortable. And sometimes that’s necessary. But overusing stimulant laxatives—the kind that force the bowel to contract—can cause the body to become dependent.
That’s not something we ever want. At Fernz, we’re all about remedies to relieve constipation that work with the body, not against it. That’s where these natural, supportive tools come in.
Herbal Laxatives
There are herbs like senna, cascara, and aloe that have natural laxative properties. They can be effective, especially in teas or tinctures, but they’re still considered stimulant laxatives, and regular use can lead to dependence. We always urge people to use these sparingly and under guidance. What might feel “natural” isn’t always gentle on the digestive system, especially when used often.
Psyllium Husk and Fiber Supplements
For people who can’t get enough fiber from food alone, psyllium husk is an excellent option. It swells in water and adds bulk to the stool, helping it move through the digestive tract with less effort. It’s important to drink plenty of water when using psyllium or other fiber supplements, or they can actually back things up.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is one of those traditional remedies that’s stood the test of time. Taken internally, it acts as a powerful stimulant laxative, but we actually prefer it used externally as a compress.
Applying a warm castor oil pack to the abdomen can help stimulate the colon, reduce bloat, and calm inflammation. It works beautifully alongside breathwork and massage, especially when your gut feels tense or sluggish.
Internally, castor oil should only be used occasionally and with caution. It works fast, sometimes within hours, but can cause cramping and urgency. If used too often, it can dehydrate the bowel and lead to dependency. The bottom line with all of these tools is balance.
See our full guide on the benefits of castor oil here.
How Colon Hydrotherapy Complements Other Therapies
At Fernz Wellness, one of the most exciting parts of what we do is watching how colon hydrotherapy blends seamlessly with other approaches to wellness. It’s not something that lives in isolation. In fact, it often fits right into the bigger picture of gut healing, which is rarely just about one single method or protocol. We’ve worked with people who are seeing naturopathic doctors, functional medicine practitioners, and integrative health providers, and colon hydrotherapy is often one of the tools that bridges the gap between support and true relief.
Many naturopathic care plans focus on root causes, whether that’s food sensitivities, poor digestive function, stress, or even chronic infections like Candida. When the colon is sluggish or holding waste, it can make everything else harder. You might be eating well, taking your supplements, and still not feel the shift because your body is struggling to eliminate properly. That’s where colon hydrotherapy can step in and help create more space in the system, so other therapies can work better.
Functional medicine is another area where colon hydrotherapy often plays a big role. Many functional protocols include gut support, liver detox pathways, and microbiome balance. If the bowel isn’t moving well, it can stall all of that progress. Waste, old stool, and excess hormones can sit in the digestive tract, creating reabsorption and inflammation. Colon hydrotherapy supports the movement of stool through the colon, helping restore more regular rhythms without relying on laxatives or artificial stimulation.
What sets Fernz Wellness apart is our use of the LIBBE open system which is a modern, state-of-the-art unit designed for maximum comfort and privacy. Unlike the closed system method, the LIBBE system allows clients to remain in control during the session while the body is gently supported in eliminating waste. It’s quiet, low-pressure, making the entire feel surprisingly relaxing.
This open system also encourages more complete releases without discomfort, which is especially helpful for those dealing with chronic constipation or nervousness around the process. It’s one of the reasons why clients feel empowered and more connected to their bodies after just one visit.
What’s also fascinating, and something we talk about a lot in our sessions, is the emotional component of constipation. The gut is a deeply emotional place. It’s often where we hold stress, fear, and tension. And the colon, in particular, tends to store what we’re not ready to release, physically and emotionally. We’ve seen it time and time again: someone comes in feeling stuck, bloated, and heavy. Then, after a session, they feel a sense of lightness and clarity they weren’t expecting. It’s not just about clearing out the stool, sometimes, it’s also about letting go of what’s been emotionally weighing them down.
That kind of shift is hard to describe until you’ve experienced it. But it’s real. And the reason it’s so powerful is because it encourages the body to do what it was designed to do, have regular bowel movements, stay hydrated, and feel good, without becoming dependent on medications or stimulants. We love when clients come in telling us they’re already working with a health team. Colon hydrotherapy is that supportive friend that makes all the other pieces work more smoothly.
Fernz Wellness - Los Angeles Colon Hydrotherapy
Learn more about us here and discover how our services can be a vital part of your journey to optimal health. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to better digestive health and improved well-being.
Our address is 5486 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 and you can also call or text us at (424) 281-9366.
Conclusion
If there’s one thing we’ve learned at Fernz Wellness after years of working closely with people and their digestive health, it’s that constipation relief is never one-size-fits-all. Every body is different. Some people respond instantly to simple changes like more water and fiber-rich foods. Others need deeper support, more structured tools, therapeutic practices, and yes, sometimes professional help to truly get their system moving again.
We’ve seen clients walk in carrying years of discomfort, frustration, and even shame about how their bowel movements have affected their lives. And the most rewarding thing is seeing them finally understand that they’re not broken, they’re not lazy, and they’re not alone. Their body just needs the right kind of attention. And support.
Colon hydrotherapy isn’t a cure. It’s a powerful, loving tool that helps the body do what it already wants to do, pass stool, release waste, soften old patterns, and create room for better digestion and better energy. It’s a reminder that healing doesn’t have to be forceful. It can be gentle. And it can be deeply effective.
Remember, what matters most is consistency. Support your body daily. Build a rhythm. Hydrate. Breathe. Eat real food. Move. And when needed, seek out therapies that encourage your natural rhythm instead of overriding it. You deserve to feel light, clear, and at ease in your body.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gas a sign of constipation relief?
Yes, it can be. If you're suddenly passing more gas after feeling blocked up, it may be a sign that your intestines are starting to move again. When the passage of stool is delayed, gas builds up behind it. So when things finally begin to shift, whether because of hydration, movement, or a session of colon hydrotherapy, that trapped gas is often the first to go. It's not always comfortable, but it can be a good sign that your body is responding.
How do I get instant relief from constipation?
We get this question a lot, and while there’s no magic switch, some things can truly help right away. First, drink plenty of water, dehydration is one of the biggest reasons constipation occurs. Add a few drops of lemon, or sip warm herbal tea like peppermint or ginger. A gentle belly massage, a walk around the block, or sitting on the toilet in a squat-like position can also help. For those needing something stronger, magnesium citrate, an osmotic laxative, is often used to pull water into the stool, making it easier to pass. And of course, at Fernz Wellness, we often see people get fast relief from a colon hydrotherapy session.
What’s the best constipation relief?
Honestly, it depends on the person. For some, it’s increasing fiber intake with more whole grains, fiber-rich foods, and hydrating beverages. For others, it’s addressing stress, restoring digestive balance, or trying a therapy like colon hydrotherapy, which many of our clients say helps with constipation when nothing else has. The best approach is usually a mix, diet, hydration, movement, and, when needed, safe support tools like natural laxatives or stool softeners. What’s key is finding something you can sustain long term.
How to get immediate relief from constipation?
If you’re looking for fast constipation relief, juicing is a gentle and effective go-to. Fresh juice with greens, cucumber, apple, and lemon can hydrate and nourish without burdening the digestive system. We also love warm lemon water in the morning, which can stimulate a bowel movement naturally. Some people benefit from castor oil packs, epsom salt baths, or even doing breathwork to calm the nervous system. And of course, a colon hydrotherapy session is often very effective at relieving constipation, especially when you’re feeling backed up and bloated.
Is it normal to not poop every day?
It depends. Some people have regular bowel movements every other day and feel great, while others feel uncomfortable if they miss even one. What matters most is how you feel. If your stool is hard, dry, or difficult to pass, or you’re feeling bloated and sluggish, even if you’re technically going, you might still be constipated. So while not everyone needs to poop daily, your body should feel light, clear, and comfortable between meals.
What is chronic constipation?
Chronic constipation means you’ve been dealing with symptoms for several weeks or even months. This might look like having fewer than three bowel movements a week, frequent straining, incomplete emptying, or the constant use of laxatives or fiber supplements just to get things moving. Some people with chronic constipation have underlying conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or idiopathic constipation, where the cause isn’t clear. But more often than not, it’s a mix of things: stress, poor hydration, lack of fiber, and irregular habits. It takes time and consistency to shift, but it can be done.
What should I do if I have severe constipation?
Severe constipation isn’t something to ignore. If you’ve gone several days without a bowel movement, and you’re experiencing bloat, discomfort, or even pain, your body is asking for attention. In some cases, an enema or an osmotic remedy like magnesium may be used to treat this level of blockage. At Fernz, we’ve worked with people who came in after trying everything else, and a single colon hydrotherapy session brought enormous relief. That said, if you’re also experiencing vomiting, fever, or sharp pain, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Do natural laxatives work?
Yes, but like anything, they work best when paired with lifestyle support. Natural laxatives like prunes, prune juice, aloe vera, and magnesium-rich foods (like leafy greens or pumpkin seeds) can encourage bowel movements gently. Herbal teas with senna or cascara also fall into this category, but they’re still stimulant laxatives, so they shouldn’t be used daily. We always recommend starting with food-based remedies, adding fiber, drinking more water, and seeing how your body responds. Natural doesn’t always mean mild, so it's good to listen closely to how your gut reacts.
How much fiber do I actually need?
Most adults need between 25 and 34 grams of fiber a day, depending on age, gender, and activity level. That might sound like a lot, but it’s totally doable with the right foods. Think oats, chia seeds, lentils, berries, and lots of veggies. If you’re starting from a low-fiber diet, go slow, suddenly doubling your fiber intake without drinking enough water can actually cause constipation. Always pair fiber with hydration to make it work.
Can stress cause constipation?
Absolutely. The gut is directly connected to the brain through the vagus nerve, which means emotional tension often shows up as digestive tension. If your system feels clenched, your colon may not be able to pass stool smoothly. We've had clients who were eating well and hydrated, but holding so much emotional stress that their body just froze up. Sometimes a shift in routine, some nervous system support, or even talking about what you’re holding onto can help more than you'd expect.
What are some foods that help relieve constipation?
Some of the best foods include kiwi, pears, flaxseeds, chia seeds, lentils, oats, whole grains, leafy greens, and prunes. These fiber-rich foods help add bulk to stool, support the passage of stool, and keep things moving. We also love hydrating produce like cucumbers, oranges, and melon to give your system the moisture it needs. When your food is simple, fresh, and full of natural fiber, your body often knows just what to do.
Can colon hydrotherapy help with constipation?
Yes, it absolutely can. While it's not a remedy for constipation on its own, colon hydrotherapy is very effective at relieving constipation, especially for people who feel like they’ve tried everything else. It gently encourages the movement of stool through the colon, introduces hydration, and gives the digestive system a chance to reset. We've seen it work for people with chronic constipation, severe blockages, or those simply needing a boost to get back on track. It's supportive, not forceful, and it fits beautifully into a holistic approach to digestive health.
Additional Resources
Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Digestive System
Understanding Constipation: Causes and Treatments - Harvard Medical School
Managing Chronic Constipation - Cleveland Clinic
Fiber and Your Health - Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Tips for Relieving Constipation - UW Health
Constipation - University of Michigan Health
*The services provided by Fernz Wellness are intended for general wellness and educational purposes only. They are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Please consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or wellness routine. Results may vary.
