Best Foods to Relieve Constipation : A Complete Guide | Dr. Vaidya's

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Piles Care

Foods to Relieve Constipation

Published on Oct 03, 2024

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By Dr. Surya Bhagwati
Chief In- House Doctor
BAMS, DHA, DHHCM, DHBTC | 30+ Years of Experience

Foods to Relieve Constipation

Discover The Best Foods To Relieve Constipation Are you suffering from constipation?

It is a common digestive disorder with uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain and infrequent bowel movements. However, making the right food choices can help relieve constipation naturally. That’s because there are many foods rich in fiber as well as water-dense foods, which will improve digestion and regularity. So, incorporate foods for constipation relief to feel the difference!

Prunes And Figs

Prunes are highly valued due to their natural laxative properties. They are also high in fiber and contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol which draws water into the intestines, softening the stool and promoting bowel movements. Just a few prunes will induce digestive stimulation. Another high-fibre fruit that can help with constipation is figs, rich in magnesium, which is crucial for muscle contractions. Healthy contractions include the ones within the digestive tract. For a simple home remedy, add these foods to relieve constipation to your breakfast or snack throughout the day.

Apples And Pears

Apples and pears are rich in soluble fiber, mostly pectin, which bears bulky characteristics and promotes frequent bowel movements. The fiber within these fruits makes the stool soft with an increase in the water content, so the stool may easily pass through. High water content of these foods to relieve constipation fast helps in hydration. To get the most benefit out of them, these should be eaten with the skin attached as much of their fiber is in the skin. They blend into any diet easily because they can be eaten whole, added to salads, or pureed into smoothies.

Kiwi

One of the foods that relieve constipation is kiwi. This fruit packs one big punch when it comes to digestion. It is an excellent source of fiber and contains a unique enzyme called actinidin, which helps stimulate bowel movements. Studies on kiwi have shown that it does not only improve the frequency of bowel movement but also ease. This will make it a very good remedy for persons experiencing constipation. Add it to the breakfast plate, or it makes for a good snack throughout the day, or combine it with other fibre-rich fruits in a fruit salad to improve gut health.

Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries)

Strawberries and blueberries are foods to relieve constipation as they contain great fiber and antioxidant content. These berries contain almost no calories but are very nutritious. With their high fiber content, they promote healthy digestion as they expand the volume of the stool. Berries can be added as toppings to your yogurt, oatmeal, or salads. You could even have them alone as a refreshing snack that helps relieve constipation.

Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Grapefruit)

Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit, have a lot of pulp that contains fiber and vitamin C. Fibers and water content of citrus fruits allow an easy food passage in the gut; therefore, they are good at relieving constipation. Eat these foods to relieve constipation fast at any time of the day for digestive benefits.

Spinach And Broccoli

Non-leafy green or cruciferous vegetables such as spinach and broccoli are high in insoluble fiber, making these foods for constipation relief. Spinach and broccoli also contain large amounts of magnesium, which can serve as a laxative since it contributes to contractions in the muscles of the intestines. Consider adding spinach to salads or smoothies and include broccoli at meals in the form of a steamed side dish or added to stir-fries.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a great and tasty foods that relieve constipation. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber; this makes the digestion smooth sailing, while the bowel movement comes out regularly. The water brings enough fiber to the stool, which makes it easier to pass. Baked or roasted sweet potatoes can change everything in your meals. You can serve them on the side, as you include them in salads or soups. They contain their natural sweetness and are one of the healthiest options when it comes to improving digestion.

Beans And Lentils

Beans and lentils are excellent sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which makes them among the most effective plant-based foods to relieve constipation. The fiber in beans and lentils serves as a bulking agent for stool, which makes stool movement through the intestines easy. Many people fancy these styles of legumes for their versatility-they can be included in soups, stews, salads, and even be the base for veggie burgers. Since they have relatively high fiber and nutrient content, they serve as outstanding overall food in the gut.

Chia Seeds And Flaxseeds

Small but super powerful, chia seeds and flaxseeds are of great strength in terms of digestive health. Both contain soluble fiber, a fiber that swells when absorbing water, creates a gel-like substance in the intestines that keeps stool soft and encourages regular bowel movements. You can add chia seeds or flax seeds to smoothies, yoghurt, oatmeal, or even baked goods. Ensure that you take in a lot of water when taking these seeds, as the fiber needs hydration to work correctly.

Whole Grains (Oats, Brown Rice)

The whole grains found like oats and brown rice offer good amounts of fiber that relieve constipation. Oats contain a type of soluble fiber known as beta-glucan, which has been proven effective in softening the stool and regulating bowel movements. Brown rice is a whole grain, meaning that it maintains its bran and germ layers and thus contains more fiber compared to refined grains. Begin your day by adding oatmeal to your breakfast or substitute whole carbohydrates with refined grains using brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread for healthy digestion.

Conclusion

The best foods to relieve constipation are ones which are full of fiber, hydration, and nutrients. Include prunes, kiwi, apples, beans, spinach and whole grains to your meals to promote digestive health through smoother regular bowel movements. However, if you do not obtain a balanced diet with fiber, make sure that you engage in physical activity to avoid constipation. Healthy lifestyle for a healthier gut!

FAQs

What types of foods can help relieve constipation naturally?

Some of the foods to relieve constipation fast are strawberries, chia seeds, sweet potato and kiwi to soften the stool and encourage bowel movement.

How does diet impact bowel regularity and digestion?

High fiber and water intake add bulk to the stools while ensuring that food moves through the digestive system in a healthy manner, which helps with regular bowels and avoids constipation.

Can pregnancy lead to constipation in women?

Yes, pregnancy causes constipation because of hormonal changes and increased pressure on the intestines which increases the time taken for digestion.

How long does it take for dietary changes to improve constipation?

Through diet, changes can be made within a few days or a week depending on the intake of how much fiber and water is taken with your diet.

When should I see a doctor?

Seek medical attention if you encounter two weeks of persistent constipation, pain while passing stool, blood-stained faeces, and sudden changes in your bowel function.

Add Dr Vaidya’s products to your cart to relieve from constipation, such as juice for piles, constipation relief tablets and constipation care effervescent. They work to break down food, improve your gut’s health, and help lose weight. Or try home remedies to maintain a healthy digestive system. Try now!

Dr. Surya Bhagwati
BAMS (Ayurveda), DHA (Hospital Admin), DHHCM (Health Management), DHBTC (Herbal Beauty and Cosmetology)

Dr. Surya Bhagwati is an established, well-known Ayurvedic expert with over 30 years of experience in treating and consulting in the field of Ayurveda. She is known for the timely, efficient, and patient-centred delivery of quality health care. The patients under her care receive a unique holistic treatment comprising not only medicinal treatment but also spiritual empowerment.

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