Eat These Seven Foods To Make You Regular

When it comes to health, we often focus on the foods that can help us feel better, the exercises we should be doing daily, but we don't usually talk about digestive issues and how often we're using the bathroom, right? Given the personal nature of going to the bathroom, this topic is usually shoved to the side. Because really, let's be honest: Who wants to spend time talking about poop when you can talk about your favorite green juice?

That being said, going to the bathroom regularly is a sign that you're eating the right foods and your body is functioning properly. "Passing waste helps your body's plumbing stay clear and free of blockages," says wellness coach Jackie Keller, who I talked to about these issues. "Blockages in your digestive tract can lead to things like colon cancer, hemorrhoids and diverticulitis, which usually occurs when your colon wall has to work too hard to move the feces along."

However, just because you're not spending a solid amount of time on the toilet doesn't mean you're doomed to unhealthiness. Eating the right foods can help clear out your system and encourage you to go to the bathroom more frequently. To help you become more regular, try eating the following seven foods, which will improve your digestion and help keep your system clean and clear.

1. Whole Grains

Whole grains such as oatmeal, whole wheat, brown rice, and bulgur are a great source of fiber.

"Fiber rich foods do wonderful things for your body," says Keller. "Fiber helps keep digested food bulky and soft, so it passes through the intestines without too much pressure."

2. Figs

If prunes don't sound the most appetizing to you, opt for some figs instead. Figs are high in a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber, helping to ease your digestive system while providing your body with a good dose of vitamins and minerals.

3. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is a natural solution to bloating, stomach aches, and constipation. Studies have found that peppermint can help treat symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, as it help relaxes muscles in the intestinal tract.

4. Flaxseed

Not only is flaxseed high in fiber, but it contains alpha-linolenic acid, which helps protect the lining of the intestine tract and prevent inflammation.

5. Beans

We've all heard the song that lets us know that this "magical fruit" will make you poop, and the fiber content of beans does indeed help your digestive system move along, helping you to achieve regular bowel movements.

6. Pears

Next time you're having a difficult time going to the bathroom, try eating pears, which are a common natural remedy for constipation. The fruit is high in fiber as well as pectin, which has a cleaning effect as it goes through your digestive system.

7. Water

You won't be able to get all these foods down without drinking some water along with them, and dehydration is actually one of the most common causes of constipation.

"You need to drink plenty of water to lubricate the your system," says Keller.

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