How to relieve dry intestines and constipation by moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements
Oct 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
In general, dry intestines and constipation may be caused by insufficient water intake, low dietary fiber consumption, functional constipation, intestinal flora imbalance, intestinal polyps, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general measures, medication, and other treatments. In daily life, it is important to engage in appropriate physical activity, such as walking or yoga, to promote intestinal motility.
Generally, dry intestines and constipation may be caused by insufficient water intake, inadequate dietary fiber consumption, functional constipation, intestinal flora imbalance, or intestinal polyps. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other approaches. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Insufficient water intake: When daily fluid intake is low, excessive water absorption occurs in the intestines, leading to dry and hard stools that are difficult to pass. It is recommended to maintain a daily water intake of 1500–2000 mL, consumed in multiple portions throughout the day. Avoid drinking large amounts at once. Warm water or light tea can be chosen to increase stool moisture in the intestines.
2. Inadequate dietary fiber intake: A lack of fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in the diet slows intestinal motility, prolonging stool retention in the gut and resulting in dryness. Adjust the diet by consuming more celery, spinach, apples, oats, and similar foods. Aim for a daily dietary fiber intake of 25–35 grams to promote healthy intestinal movement.
3. Functional constipation: Weakened intestinal motility and abnormal defecation reflexes can lead to constipation without any organic disease. Symptoms include difficulty passing stool and dry feces. Patients may take medications such as lactulose oral solution, polyethylene glycol 4000 powder, or bisacodyl enteric-coated tablets as prescribed by a doctor to soften stools and stimulate bowel movements.
4. Intestinal flora imbalance: Long-term antibiotic use or an unbalanced diet can reduce beneficial bacteria and increase harmful bacteria in the gut, impairing normal intestinal function and causing constipation. Under medical guidance, patients may take probiotic medications such as Bifidobacterium triple viable capsule, Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecalis viable granules, or Lactobacillus sporogenes viable capsule to restore gut flora balance and improve intestinal health.
5. Intestinal polyps: Polyps forming on the intestinal mucosa may obstruct the bowel, hinder stool passage, and lead to dryness and constipation. Additional symptoms may include rectal bleeding or abdominal pain. Small polyps may be monitored regularly, while larger or symptomatic polyps require endoscopic polypectomy to restore normal bowel patency. Follow-up examinations should be conducted post-surgery as directed by a physician.
In daily life, moderate physical activity such as walking or yoga should be increased to enhance intestinal motility. Avoid prolonged sitting, reduce late-night hours, and maintain a regular sleep schedule. Lifestyle modifications can help manage and alleviate dry intestines and constipation.
