How can you relieve constipation?

If you're having infrequent bowel movements, you don't have to panic just yet.

Oncologist Dr. Isaac David Ampil II says to try adjusting your diet first.

"'Pag matigas ang dumi at mahirap siyang ilabas, usually diet. Subukan muna ang diet. Which means kailangan high fiber 'yung diet mo, rich in fruits and vegetables," he said in an episode of Pinoy MD.

It's not just your food intake that you have to watch, but your water as well. Water is needed to be able to pass stools.

"Siguraduhin mo na ikaw ay adequately hydrated, mga 1.5 to 2 liters a day siguro, at least. Kailangan din kasi ng tubig ng ating dumi para ma-expel ng maayos," Ampil said.

If you're already eating fiber-rich foods and drinking enough water but you're still having a hard time in the toilet, then it is advised that you visit your gastroenterologist.

"Kapag 'yan ay hindi mag-work, mas maganda na magpatingin ka sa gastroenterologist, kasi ang constipation ay also one of the signs of more severe diseases," he said.

A worse case scenario is the presence of polyps in the intestines that cause constipation. —JCB, GMA News