Understanding male infertility Male infertility is a condition that reduces the chances of the female partner getting pregnant even after 12 months sexual activity aimed at pregnancy. Around 13 out of 100 couples are unable to get pregnant after regular or unprotected sex. One-third of the infertility problem is associated with the female partner, one-third is associated with the male partner, and one-third is caused by a combination of problems in both partners or maybe unexplained.  There are a variety of causes for infertility in men but it is often due to problems with sperm production or with sperm count and/or delivery. In normal conditions, the sperm goes into the female’s vagina by traveling through her cervix to the uterus and from the uterus, the sperm goes to her fallopian tubes. When the sperm and the female’s egg meet, fertilization happens. This process can only go well if the genes, hormone levels, and environmental conditions are appropriate.  Producing a healthy and mature sperm that can travel through the vagina and fuse with the egg in the fallopian tubes of the female is dependent on a variety of factors. What causes male infertility? Problems in the male may cause cells to stop growing into a sperm while some problems in men may keep the sperm from reaching the egg or maybe the temperature of the scrotum may affect the fertility of the man. There are a variety of main causes and other factors such as environmental and genetics that can contribute to male infertility.  Main causes of male infertility: Sperm disorders such as immature sperm, oddly shaped, or low count Retrograde ejaculation Immunologic infertility Blockages, birth defects, or physical damage in parts of the testicles  Hormonal imbalances in the pituitary and the thyroid glands Certain medications can alter sperm production, function, and delivery. These medications may be given to treat other health issues such as arthritis, depression, high blood pressure, or digestive problems.  Chronic diseases such as anemia, malnutrition, cancer, neurological disease, or diabetes A disease of the male genital tract such as cancer, trauma, or infection Surgery on the male genital tract for the treatment of undescended testicle or hernia Sexually transmitted diseases or other infections  Sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation  Environmental factors for male infertility:  Excess heat or high temperature Consumption of drugs including marijuana or cocaine Alcohol  Smoking Exposure to toxicants and environmental hazards like pesticides, lead, radiation, mercury, and other radioactive substances Stress Excessive workout Dietary deficiencies such as zinc, vitamin C and folic acid Obesity Genetic factors for male infertility: Mutations inside the genes that may determine the male sex such as y-chromosome Genetic disease such as cystic fibrosis Other irregular differences in the genes such as some men may have a common condition called Klinefelter’s XXY syndrome in which they have an additional copy of the female sex-determining genes such as x-chromosome Hormonal issues such as diabetes or high levels of the milk-producing hormone called prolactin Treatment for male infertility  Men should also get tested for fertility as well as women. You can talk to your doctor or urologist who may ask you for a physical exam. After the physical exam, Your doctor may order a semen analysis which can monitor the quality and quantity of the sperm in the semen. A semen analysis can also determine Azoospermia (no sperm production), oligospermia (few sperm productions), the problem with sperm motility, and the problem with sperm morphology (problem with form and structure). These conditions may be the straight cause that you cannot conceive or those conditions may be caused by an underlying condition. Your doctor may examine the issue further by conducting a blood test, transrectal ultrasound, testicular biopsy, or urine tests. Treatment of male infertility depends on what causes infertility. Several male problems can be cured by drugs and surgery that can allow conception through normal sex.  The treatment is divided into three categories including non-surgical therapy, surgical therapy, and treatment of unknown causes of male infertility. If you are someone who has been diagnosed with male infertility, discuss with your doctor any behavioral changes that can boost your chances of conceiving. If your sperm count is low, your doctor may ask you to have less intercourse to form a better concentration of sperm. Your doctor may recommend some lifestyle changes such as  Avoiding toxicants and environmental hazards Avoiding smoking and alcohol Reducing stress and Relax Taking vitamins such as iron, folic acid, and zinc Antioxidants such as vitamin C Get enough vitamin D Take fenugreek supplement Lose excess weight Get adequate sleep Avoid eating too much soy Eat lots of walnuts The bottom line Infertility is a common health issue affecting men worldwide. If you have infertility issues, one thing you can do is to improve your general health. We hope you find this article useful for yourself. 

It’s a well-known fact that, most of the germs spread through the air. The vivid example is Covid, itself. Also Influenza, Measles are one of those diseases which spread from air. “Measles, is a viral infection that’s serious for small children, but this easily preventable by a vaccine”. Children younger than 5 years of age, adults older than 20 years of age mostly get affected from Measles. Sometimes pregnant women, people with poor immune system such as leukemia may also get affected.  Though Chickenpox and measles are both infectious disease and caused by viruses, but both are not same by nature. Once you had measles, it’s highly unlikely you will get it again. But there is a duel opinion against it. However measles may lead to serious complications in some people (but the chances are less).  Measles is caused by a virus found in nose or throat. When someone coughs or sneezes, the infectious droplets spray into the air and stay in the air about an hour. Thus one get affected from measles virus.  The symptoms of it appear 7 to 14 days after contact with virus. The person with this disease suffers from high fever, cough, sore throat, running nose, and inflamed eyes. The red rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading the rest of the body. Within two three days the spot remain discrete.  There is no such particularly treatment to get rid of it, but vitamin A may help with symptoms. For such cases the doctor also suggests to take a proper rest and drink plenty of fluids. Vaporizer may ease the cough and nasal congestion. Sometimes sponge baths with lukewarm water is also effective to reduce the fever or Discomfortness. But sometimes we observe many of us using home remedies to get rid of it, which is not correct. Always consult a doctor before applying anything to a Measles affected person or child. Some disease are too sensitive to handle. Only good diet and good lifestyle can give you a better life.

There are some specific problems, about which we cannot speak up properly. We develop the misconception without knowing the fact, because we do not want to discuss. We feel shy to share our feelings our experience, which we should not. The matter which we used to keep quiet is about “Sex”. Erectile Dysfunction is one of such disorders which we avoid to discuss. Erectile Dysfunction, also known as impotence. It is defined by difficulty getting and keeping an erection. As per the report more than half of men between the ages 40 and 70 experienced from ED. This Erectile Dysfunction occurs when a man can’t get or keep an erection firm enough. Men’s sexual process  is very complex, which involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels. ED can result from a problem of any of these, but the common causes include – 1. Heart Disease 2. Clogged blood vessels 3. High Cholesterol 4. High Blood Pressure 5. Tobacco use 6. Sleep disorder 7. Low testosterone 8. Parkinson’s disease 9. Metabolic  Syndrome 10. Diabetes 11. Certain Prescription medications And many more, it basically depends on individuals.  But as per some reports the main cause of it is abnormalities the penile arteries, Veins or both. Chronic illness, certain medications, operations for the prostate, bladder and colon cancer may also be contributing factors. Frequently using abused drugs (like alcohol, Tobacco, cocaine etc.) also may lead to ED. It is also a common side effect of a number of prescribed drugs too. Approximately one in 10 adult males will suffer from ED on a long term Basis. This type of sexual problems may have some specific symptoms but it also includes mental health sometimes. Because physical intimacy is as equal as mental intimacy. It is a sign of physical or psychological condition. Which cause stress, relationship strain and low self-confidence. Patients suffering from erectile dysfunction should first be evaluated for any physical and psychological. Medication and Assistive devices such as pumps can be prescribed.  Sexual problems are such problems which we often avoid to discuss. If we find something by our own, we tend to hide. But any type of sexual problem or such disorder should be diagnosed properly and get treated well.

What is male sexual dysfunction? Male sexual dysfunction is a common health condition affecting men of all ages but especially the older ones. In this condition, many men struggle with problems during sex and it occurs with increasing age. Sexual dysfunction can be physical or psychological that prevents men from getting sexual satisfaction or pleasure. Problems in sex may be caused due to various factors such as your health, stress, relationship concerns, and other issues. The most common type of sexual dysfunction disorders include erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorders, inhibited sexual desire, and low libido. Around 31 percent of men and 43 percent of women get some kind of difficulty during sex. But several sorts of sexual disorders can be corrected by treating the underlying causes and can be improved with the help of the latest technologies.  Causes of male sexual dysfunction There are a variety of causes leading to male sexual dysfunction including common sexual problems, health problems, mental and emotional issues. Common sexual dysfunction problems Men with sexual dysfunction may feel problems at different points during sex including:  Lack of sexual desire Inability to get or keep an erection Orgasms that occur too slowly or quickly Inability to have orgasms Deformities of your penis  Retrograde ejaculation Health problems affecting male sexual health Several medical conditions and overall decay of men’s health may affect their sexual life including: Heart and blood vessels disorders e.g. high blood pressure Low testosterone levels Diabetes Kidney problems Hormones imbalances Stroke and nervous system disorders e.g., multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease Obesity High blood pressure High cholesterol Prescriptions drugs for  depression and high blood pressure  Smoking Drinking too much alcohol Drug abuse  Mental and emotional issues Mental and emotional issues can have a big effect on your sex life including  Stress Anxiety Depression Fear of pregnancy Low confidence during sex Relationship concerns Regular workout, maintaining weight, and managing stress can be helpful to improve your sex life. Occasional problems with sexual functions are normal but if problems last more than a few months or cause distress for you and your partner, you should talk to your healthcare provider. You may feel shy while discussing your sexual problems with a doctor but being honest about your sexual concerns can be the first step to get help and the best treatment can be recommended. Diagnosis and treatment of male sexual dysfunction Your doctor may ask you several questions about your symptoms, medical and sexual history. They may perform a physical exam and other tests ( including blood tests, Blood pressure check, rectal exam, and examination of your penis and testicles) to check whether an underlying health condition is a reason behind your sexual problems. If your medical condition including heart disease, diabetes, or depression are causing problems in your sexual life, your doctor may treat it first.  The healthcare provider or doctor may also ask you to follow a treatment plan, eat a heart-healthy diet, avoid smoking, and drinking alcohol. They may also encourage you to do workouts such as aerobic exercise and weight-building exercise, and change unhealthy habits. If sexual problems are happening due to emotional and psychological issues, you can also get treatment to manage stress, depression, and anxiety. In addition, open communication with your partner may also help you.   Male sexual dysfunction cannot be prevented but such things may help you to improve your sexual ability and overall general health. Other treatments are also available such as hormone therapy, counseling, testosterone therapy, Penile traction therapy, surgery to correct penis deformities, penis implant surgery,  medications, psychological therapy, and mechanical aids are some of the therapies that can help alleviate male sexual dysfunction.  Foods that help you to reduce male sexual dysfunction Some foods have the potential to improve male sexual dysfunction disorders especially erectile disorder. This diet may also help you to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and erectile dysfunction in males. The diet include  Vegetables Fruits Olive oil Fish Legumes Whole grains Flavonoid-rich foods and drinks including strawberries, blueberries, apples, pears, and citrus products.  L-arginine rich food such as poultry, red meat, nuts, and dairy products Foods rich in nitrate including spinach, lettuce, radish, beetroot, and Chinese cabbage Cocoa and dark chocolates Tea Foods rich in lycopene including tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, papaya, and red peppers The bottom line If managing a healthy lifestyle is not helping you with your sexual problems, consult with your doctor immediately.

A diagnosis of infertility is given when a couple is not able to conceive a child even after having unprotected sexual intercourse for a year or more. Traditionally, it was thought of as a women’s problem. But as it turns out, fertility issues in men are as common as they are in women.  The problem could be with sperm production or sperm function. Or, there could be blockages that prevent the delivery of the sperm. Wondering why such issues occur? Let’s understand them here. Symptoms of infertility in men The only sign of infertility in men is the inability to conceive a child. Other than that, you may not see any other obvious signs and symptoms. However, if an underlying problem such as hormonal imbalance or a disorder is the cause of infertility, the following symptoms can be spotted –  Problems with sexual intercourse (difficulty with ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, etc) Pain or swelling in the testicle area Recurrent respiratory infections Reduced ability to smell Abnormal breast growth Decreased facial and body hair Causes of infertility in men Just like female fertility, male fertility is a complex process. To get your partner pregnant the following SHOULD happen You must produce healthy sperm The sperm has to be carried into semen Semen should have enough number of sperm in it Sperm must be functional and able to move So, what conditions can become a hindrance in this process? There are medical issues, environmental issues, and lifestyle issues.  Medical causes of infertility in men Varicocele Varicocele is a swelling in the scrotum (the sac containing the testes). It occurs when the veins draining blood from the testes get enlarged. Though the exact cause is unknown, it is related to abnormal testicular temperature regulation. Fortunately, this condition is reversible.  Infection Some infections interfere with sperm production and sperm health. They can also cause scarring that blocks the passage of sperm. Epididymitis, orchitis, gonorrhea, and HIV are some known such infections. While some of these infections are reversible, others can cause permanent damage. Ejaculation issues Inability to ejaculate semen or semen entering the bladder instead of emerging out of the penis (a condition called retrograde ejaculation) is amongst the common causes of infertility in men. These conditions often occur due to various health issues including diabetes, spinal injuries, prior surgeries, or medications.  Autoimmune disorders Sometimes, your own body attacks the sperm. Your immune system might produce anti-sperm antibodies which mistakenly identifies sperm as harmful invaders and tries to eliminate them. Tumors Cancers or even non-cancerous tumors can directly affect the reproductive organs of males. They can influence the organs that release hormones related to reproduction, like the pituitary gland. Sometimes, radiation and chemotherapy used to treat these tumors can also affect fertility. Hormonal imbalance Testicle disorders or any abnormality affecting the hormonal system (such as the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands) is another common cause of infertility in men. These issues with hormones can have various underlying causes.   Defects of tubules Many tubes carry sperm. They can be blocked or damaged because of injury from surgery, prior infections, abnormal development, or certain inherited conditions.  Problems with sexual intercourse Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, painful intercourse, or psychological or relationship problems can also potentially cause infertility in men. Environmental causes of infertility in men Exposure to chemicals and metals Exposure to chemicals such as benzenes, toluene, xylene, pesticides, painting materials or heavy metals like lead can contribute to low sperm count and cause infertility. Heat exposure High temperature can hamper sperm production and their function. Frequent use of saunas, hot tubs or wearing tight clothes can increase the temperature in your scrotum and reduce sperm production. Radiation  Exposure to radiation or X-rays can reduce sperm production, but it eventually gets normal. Sometimes, when the dose of radiation is high, permanent damage can occur. Lifestyle and other causes of infertility in men Drug, alcohol and tobacco use Use of steroids, cocaine, marijuana, tobacco, or high consumption of alcohol can reduce sperm production, cause erectile dysfunction, and disbalance your hormones. All of this can become the cause of infertility. Stress Stress can throw the hormones necessary for sperm production out of balance. If it’s chronic, it can also affect your sperm count. Obesity Obesity can affect your fertility in many ways. It can directly impact the sperm or cause changes in your hormonal balance – all of which is a cause of infertility. Takeaway Infertility can sure seem like the biggest challenge of life. But, it can be dealt with if the correct cause is identified. If you notice any symptoms, be sure to report them to the doctor without any delay. Because with timely diagnosis chances of successful treatment increase.

In one word acne is such a pain! Let’s begin with an understanding of what exactly acne is and how it occurs. What is acne? Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is basically a skin condition that develops due to the clogging of hair follicles. The skin pores get clogged with oil, dust, or dead skin cells, which may lead to blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps on the skin, or pus-filled pimples.  Acne usually appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders. Different types of acne The most common acne lesions are whiteheads and blackheads, also known as comedones. Whiteheads or closed comedones – small and under the surface of the skin  Blackheads or open comedones- black-coloured and visible on the surface.  Inflammatory acne lesions are more likely to cause scars, which include- Papules (raised lesions) Pustules (raised lesions with pus) Cysts (nodules filled with pus or fluid) Acne is most common among teenagers, however, adults also tend to get acne during their 30s, 40s, or even 50s. Pimples are the worst or most embarrassing thing you all get especially when you hit puberty. As it’s truly said- “Adolescence is just one big walking pimple” In fact, there are some myths and misconceptions about acne, such as- Myth #1: Acne is caused by a poor diet Fact:  As yet, research has not found any foods that cause acne.  Myth #2: Squeezing blackheads, and whiteheads are the best way to get rid of acne  No, in fact doing this can actually make your symptoms worse and leave you with a scar. Myth #3: Sexual activity can influence acne’– Fact is, sexual activity or masturbation has literally nothing to do anything with acne. Myth #4: Acne is infectious  No, acne is non-contagious and can not pass to another person. Causes of acne Acne is caused when tiny holes in the skin, known as hair follicles, become blocked.  Androgens are the sex hormones, which rise especially during puberty, thus leading to the enlargement of the sebaceous glands and the production of more oil and sebum than required. Excessive sebum blocks the hair follicles or pores and leads to the formation of acne or pimple. Still, there are other multiple factors also that can flare up acne, such as- Medications– Certain medicines including steroids, brain disorders-related medicines, anti-epileptic medicines, etc. Some cosmetic products– Since acne-prone skin is very sensitive, it is suggested to use dermatologically tested products, especially which are non-comedogenic so that they don’t clog the skin pores. Smoking– Can also contribute to acne, especially in the elderly. Genetics– Acne has a tendency to run in families. If either of your parents is acne-prone, then it can make your skin also acne-prone.  Diet– According to a 2021 review, certain foods or diets may have an effect on acne. Although, so far, research has found that no food can causes acne. But yes, according to some nutritionists there are certain foods that have a high glycemic index (GI) or sugar content, that can worsen your acne.  Food with high GI such as white rice, white bread, pasta, sugar etc, increases blood sugar levels more quickly. It further causes blood to release insulin-like growth factor-1 hormone.  This hormone increases sebum production when it is produced in large amounts, which can lead to the risk of acne and inflammation. Hormones– Teenage acne is known to be triggered in boys and girls, due to increased levels of a hormone called androgens, during puberty. It enlarges or over activates the sebaceous gland and produces much more sebum than required, which ultimately leads to acne. Hormonal changes during midlife, particularly in women, can lead to breakouts too. Acne in women– Women are more likely to have acne as compared to men. At certain times, women can have hormonal imbalance during certain conditions like periods, pregnancy or menopause, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), etc. which can cause acne. Signs and symptoms of acne Whiteheads (closed plugged pores) Blackheads (open plugged pores) Papules (raised lesions) Pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips Large, solid, painful lumps under the skin (nodules) Painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin (cystic lesions) How to treat acne? Depending upon the particular factors like the condition’s severity, type of acne, or your age, the dermatologist may prescribe you particular medications either oral or topical.  Topical medications include Antibiotics and retinoids- Dermatologists may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics (like erythromycin or tetracycline) and retinoids (like tretinoin or adapalene), to treat acne. Because topical antibiotics alone are usually not recommended. The doctor may start with a low effective dose, because a high dose and prolonged treatment may cause adverse effects also.  In the initial phase of the treatment, the doctor might suggest using both a retinoid and an antibiotic, with the antibiotic applied in the morning and the retinoid in the evening. Oral contraceptive- Hormonal therapies or the combined oral contraceptive pill can also help to control acne in women by suppressing the overactive gland. Azelaic acid and salicylic acid– Along with antibacterial properties, azelaic acid can also be used to manage discolouration that occurs with some types of acne. Dapsone– It is prescribed for inflammatory acne lesions, especially in women with acne. Topical anti-androgen– Clascoterone is topical anti-androgen medicine, which belongs to a new class of treatment that targets the hormone that causes an outbreak. Note: Remember to visit a dermatologist to ascertain the condition’s severity, before getting on a regimen. DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE. Oral medications include Oral antibiotics- Antibiotics work by killing excess skin bacteria and reducing redness and inflammation. It is generally recommended for long-term treatment. Take what the doctor prescribes for as long as it is prescribed. Do not stop the treatment mid-way on your own, even if you see improvement in symptoms. Complete the full course of antibiotic treatment. Examples of oral antibiotics may include tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, etc. But, refrain from self-medication. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate antibiotic after a proper skin diagnosis. Isotretinoin- It works by reducing the oil or sebum secretion from the

Introduction Bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depressive disorder or manic depression) is a relatively common but serious form of mental health condition. People with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings ranging from euphoric highs to depressive lows that typically occur during distinct periods of days to weeks. It also causes unusual changes in a person’s energy and ability to function. Here’s what you should know about this mental illness: FAQ #1: How do you know when a person suffers from bipolar disorder? There is one problem with bipolar disorder: It is a multi-faceted disease and more complicated than a simple checklist of symptoms that you can find online for an official diagnosis. Multiple visits over a long period of time are required to demonstrate a pattern of behaviour. The symptoms of bipolar illness are categorized into: Mania  Depression Some of the seven key signs of mania are: Being excessively happy or “high” for extended periods of time Having decreased need for sleep Speaking quickly, typically with racing ideas Having a restless or impetuous sensation Becoming easily distracted Acting hyperactively Having over-confidence in one’s abilities to the point of danger Engaging in reckless behaviour Some of the seven key signs of depression are: Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities Feeling sad for long periods  Withdrawing from friends and family Problems with memory and concentration A significant change in appetite Severe fatigue or lack of energy Suicidal ideation or attempt, or preoccupation with death FAQ #2: Can bipolar disorder be treated? While bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose, it is treatable once it is identified. FAQ #3: Is bipolar disorder hereditary? Just like most psychiatric conditions, the causes of bipolar disorder are not well known. However, researchers have discovered that genetics are a substantial factor in disease manifestation. This means that adults who have relatives with this condition have a tenfold increased risk of having the disorder. This shows that the illness may have a hereditary component. FAQ #4: Should I have my doctor regularly screen me for the disorder if my parent has bipolar disorder? It’s true that bipolar disorder runs in families. Having first degree relatives with bipolar disorder, (mother, father, siblings, and children) can increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder or act as a trigger for the first episode. Hence, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor periodically, to keep an eye out on the onset of bipolar disorder.  FAQ #5: Can stress trigger bipolar disorder? Bipolar disorder is frequently triggered by a stressful experience at work or in your personal life. A major life change, such as the death of a loved one or a physical injury, might also set off the symptoms. Controlling stress in one’s life is usually beneficial for those with bipolar disorder. FAQ #6: Can bipolar disorder go away by itself? Bipolar disorder, if left untreated, can lead to major problems that influence every aspect of your life, including: Addiction to drugs and alcohol  Suicide or attempted suicide Financial or legal issues Damaged relationships  Poor performance at the job or in school FAQ #7: Can bipolar disorder be cured? Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, most people with this condition can control the illness with the help of psychotherapy and the right combination of mood stabilizers and other bipolar medicines. When behavioural therapy is used in conjunction with medicines, they have shown to be effective at preventing relapses and reducing the severity of the patient’s symptoms. FAQ #8: Does bipolar disorder get worse as you get older? If left untreated, bipolar disorder tends to get worse with age. As time passes, a person may have more severe and intense episodes than when the symptoms first emerged. FAQ #9: Does bipolar disorder cause harm to the brain? People with bipolar disorder may suffer progressive brain damage with each manic or depressive episode. Bipolar episodes cause a reduction in brain growth and, potentially, intelligence. FAQ #10: Does bipolar disorder have an impact on sleep? Bipolar disorder is characterised by sleep disturbances that can wreak havoc on a person’s mood and decision-making abilities. According to the diagnostic criteria, manic periods may have a reduced need for sleep, whereas depression episodes may manifest insomnia or hypersomnia. FAQ #11: Is there a cure for bipolar in Ayurveda? Ayurveda offers a multitude of holistic tools for approaching this psychological disease. Combined with meditation and other yogic practices, Ayurveda works on modifications in lifestyle, diet, herbs to suit the specific individual. Some herb choices for tonics to treat bipolar disorder are: Ashwagandha Brahmi Shatavari Ginseng Kappikacchu Haritaki  Bhringaraj   Final thoughts Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition and it can be a real challenge for both you and your loved ones — so it is important to consider your own needs as well as theirs. It’s important to remember that most people with the bipolar illness can manage their condition and live healthy, happy lives with the right treatment.

Introduction People are typically too ashamed to publicly discuss a serious condition, called constipation. It is a condition in which the afflicted frequently experience irregular bowel movements or have a great deal of trouble passing faeces.  Although, constipation is generally considered to be one of the most common digestive issues, which is easily treatable, chronic, persistent or neglected constipation can lead to severe complications.  According to a recent poll, approximately 22 per cent of the country’s adult population suffer from constipation, with Kolkata leading the pack with 28 per cent of respondents. Technically, constipation is defined as having less than three bowel motions per week. The frequency of “going” varies significantly from person to person. While some people empty the bowels multiple times a day, others only do it once or twice per week.  Constipation results from your colon absorbing excessive amounts of water from waste (stool/poop), which dries up the stool and makes it difficult to push it out of the body. There are several reasons why people get constipated, but the sluggish passage of food through the digestive system is a common reason in most cases. Dehydration, a poor diet, drugs, sickness, diseases of the neurological system, or mental illnesses can all contribute to constipation.  Fortunately, certain meals can reduce constipation by increasing the stool’s density, softening it, speeding up the gut transit, and increasing the frequency of bowel movements. Here are some effective foods that can help you achieve optimum bowel movement and aid in the treatment of constipation:  Apples Apples are one of the most popular fruits due to their low-calorie content, ability to help with weight reduction, lower the risk of diabetes, and ability to protect your heart. But did you know that this common fruit can help with constipation too?  Both soluble and insoluble fibre is present in apples, amounting to 32% of soluble fibre and 64% of insoluble fibre. The insoluble fibre gives the stool more volume and aids in its rapid transit through the intestines. Apples are therefore advantageous for those who are constipated. Since the apple’s skin contains insoluble fibre, eating apples without peeling the skin is the best option if you’re experiencing constipation. Prunes Prunes, which are dried plums, are frequently used as an all-natural constipation treatment. Per 1/4 cup (40 grams) serving, they have a high fibre content of over 3 grams. Bringing water into the intestines and triggering a bowel movement eases constipation. Kiwi  A person dealing with constipation should increase the amount of fibre in their diet, for which Kiwi is one of the best sources. Kiwis are known to help prevent constipation in addition to their high fibre content, which also aids in smooth digestion. Studies suggest that actinidin, an enzyme, is in charge of kiwi’s beneficial effects on bowel habits and gut motility.  You can either consume raw kiwis or can simply peel them, remove the seeds, and then have them.  In one trial, wherein this fruit was eaten for 28 days by 19 healthy people. When compared to a group that wasn’t on the same diet, researchers discovered that eating kiwis significantly increased the number of bowel movements each day. Consuming kiwi is a good option to fight fewer bowel movements.  Pears Another fruit high in fibre is pears, which contain 5.5 grams in a medium-sized fruit (about 178 grams). The sugar alcohol sorbitol is also found in pears.  Sorbitol, like fructose, is poorly absorbed by the body and, by delivering water into the intestines, works as a natural laxative. Pears can be incorporated into your diet in a variety of ways.  You can eat them raw or cooked, with cheese, or you can add them to salads, savoury meals, and baked dishes. Triphala Triphala is a miraculous herb plant. It contains three essential herbs that are proven to treat constipation: Amalaki (amla), haritaki (harad), and bibhitaki (baheda). Before going to bed, mix half a teaspoon with a cup of warm milk or water.  Vegetable juice  A tall glass of vegetable juice prepared from your favourite veggies is a great mid-morning or mid-evening drink for beating constipation. You can use spinach, tomato, beetroot, lime juice, and ginger, to create a cool relaxing drink.  Juices also have a lot of water in them, which can assist in softening particularly firm stool, while also keeping the body hydrated. Final thoughts  There are many ways through which the condition of constipation can be managed. Many studies have concluded that fruits, vegetables, pulses, and seeds can help relieve constipation.  It is important to maintain the amount of fibre in the diet to avoid few bowel movements and poor digestive functions. If you are suffering from this condition, then here we have suggested some amazingly effective foods that can help you overcome it.  To beat constipation, it’s time to bring about changes in your diet along with some healthy lifestyle changes to prevent and manage the condition.  Also, it’s a great idea to opt for frequent stomach health checks to keep an eye on your digestive health and take preventive measures if any discrepancies occur.