Yes, increasing how much water you drink per day can positively affect instances of constipation, relieving its symptoms like gas and bloating.

Constipation is when you experience difficulty passing stools because the stools are hard or dry. Medically, the condition is defined as having three or fewer bowel movements per week. It’s a common issue often caused by not eating enough fiber in your diet, not getting enough physical activity (which aids in the digestive process), certain medical conditions and medications—and dehydration.

This is because dehydration, a lack of enough water in your body, can lead to dry, hard stools. Water helps to soften and bulk up the stool, making it easier to pass through your body. When you’re dehydrated, your colon absorbs more water from stool, making it difficult to pass.

Increasing your water intake throughout the day can soften stools and facilitate their passage, reducing gas buildup.

Most people should drink between 8 and 12 cups of water per day to stay hydrated.

Some recent studies have shown that particularly effecting at reducing symptoms of constipation are magnesium-sulfate-rich miner water, which is produced by some natural springs, and hydrogen-rich water, which is water infused with hydrogen. Both types are sold by health and wellness stores.

But normal tap water should ease your constipation symptoms over several hours.

Other than drinking more water, you can help relieve constipation and its uncomfortable symptoms by:

  • Consuming more fiber: Eating high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains can add bulk to your stools so they pass through your digestive tract faster.
  • Moving around: Exercise for constipation can be as simple as getting up from your computer and moving around the room, going for a walk, or stretching or practicing yoga. These activities can help stimulate the passage of stools out of your body.
  • Establishing healthy bowel habits: Establishing regular bowel habits means scheduling breaks in your schedule to visit a restroom throughout the day and responding to the urge to use the toilet. This can prevent cases of constipation.
  • Taking over-the-counter or prescription medications: There are several types of over-the-counter constipation medications available if your symptoms are minor. They can speed up your bowel movements. It’s recommended to speak with a medical professional before trying a new medication.

Drinking enough water should ease constipation symptoms but consider the other previous suggestions like increasing your physical activity and consuming more fiber as well.

It’s best to see a medical professional if you are experiencing long-lasting or severe symptoms of constipation. While this is a common issue, it can lead to more serious complications like fecal impaction, where stools become lodged in your colon or rectum. In this case, they need to be removed by a medical professional.