While most instances of constipation signify nothing more than the inability of your bowels to do their job due to lack of fiber, the underlying reason most always stems from poor eating habits. These poor eating habits have effects on your body that reach much further than a simple inconvenience, in fact what you eat could be contributing to many illnesses and even setting your body up for serious problems like heart disease and cancer.

Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do that will help you eliminate constipation as well as improve your overall health.

Well all know that lack of fiber is the main cause of constipation so your first goal should be to eat high fiber foods. Even better, studies show that eating foods high in fiber can help protect you against heart disease. A bowl of oatmeal is a good start, but a bowl of oatmeal, several pieces of fruit, and a bran muffin is even better. For most people, boosting your fiber intake will serve as a natural and healthy way to get rid of constipation. These high fiber foods can also help lower your cholesterol, your blood pressure, and reduce your chances of getting colon cancer too.

Fruits and vegetables are a great source of fiber - remember to leave the skins on when you eat them. Not only are they a great source of fiber, but fruits and vegetables also are loaded with vitamins and minerals as well as powerful antioxidants that can help boost your immune system and protect you from disease. Try adding 5 or more cups of fruits and vegetables to your diet every day - you'll be amazed at how much energy you gain and how good you feel. Some fruits that are high in fiber include raspberries, blackberries, figs, prunes, papaya and pears. Vegetables high in fiber include artichoke, acorn squash, peas, brussels sprouts and cauliflower.

Although many people use laxatives to relieve constipation, this is not a method I would recommend. You can get rid of it and improve your health by eating less junk processed foods and adding more whole grains, fruits and vegetables to your diet.

If you do find that these methods don't help or you suffer from chronic constipation, a trip to your doctor might not be a bad idea.