Patients suffering from constipation find it extremely difficult to pass the stools out of the body, as the fecal matter becomes dry and hard. In this condition, emptying the bowels can be very painful and usually causes a lot of discomfort. As far as treatment is concerned, a change in diet can work wonders to get rid of this bowel condition. Relieving Constipation Through Diet Increase Fiber Intake Lack of fiber in the diet is of the most common causes of constipation. So, dietary modification that involves increasing fiber intake is necessary to get relief from painful bowel movement. Vegetables, whole grains, and fruits such as apples are considered to be rich in fiber and so should be included in the diet. Fresh fruits such as watermelons and cantaloupe have high water content and help combat constipation. Cereals such as oatmeal and bran are also good sources of fiber. Adding a vegetable salad to your diet can work wonders to relieve constipation. However, fatty foods such as burgers, luncheon meat, cheese, and pizzas should be avoided as they are low in fiber and can aggravate your condition. Increase Fluid Intake Constipation is an indication of low fluid intake. So, drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water everyday is necessary and helps to soften the stool and ease the symptoms of constipation. A glass of warm water, taken early in the morning, can also help to stimulate bowel movement. Consult a doctor whether it is necessary to have OTC laxatives, that come in the form of pills and capsules. Laxatives such as Metamucil and Citrucel are fiber supplements and often recommended to ease bowel movement. Lack of exercise or inactivity can also increase the risk of constipation. So, apart from diet, make sure to incorporate an exercise routine into your daily schedule, to promote natural bowel movement. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.