The following fruit juices contain fiber, sorbitol, and water, and they can help relieve constipation. Otherwise, the stool can become hard, lumpy, and difficult to pass.ĭrinking plenty of water and healthful juices can help relieve constipation in many cases. The digestive system needs plenty of water to keep food waste moving through it. They contain waterĭehydration is a leading cause of constipation. Prunes are one of the richest fruit sources of sorbitol, so they may be one of the best options to help relieve constipation.
People can increase the amount of fiber in a homemade juice by keeping the skin on apples when juicing, adding the pulp back into the juice, or adding high-fiber fruits, such as berries. Sources of insoluble fiber include bran, whole wheat, rye, nuts, seeds, and fruit and vegetable skins. Insoluble fiber also flushes bad bacteria from the gut. This type of fiber helps move waste materials through the bowels.
Sources of soluble fiber include oatmeal, beans, fruits, vegetables, psyllium, seeds, and nuts. Soluble fiber absorbs water and gives stools a softer, more flexible consistency, which makes them easier to pass.Learn more about daily fiber recommendations here.įruits and vegetables contain two types of dietary fiber, both of which encourage regular bowel movements and reduce constipation: However, increasing fiber intake without drinking enough fluids may worsen constipation, so try a gradual increase of fiber along with plenty of water. People who have constipation may need to eat more dietary fiber than people who do not. The United States Department of Agriculture recommend that women eat at least 28 grams (g) of dietary fiber per day, and men 34 g per day. Diets high in dietary fiber promote healthy, regular bowel function. Instead, fiber passes through the digestive system and helps keep the gut healthy. They provide fiberĮven though they are a liquid, some fresh juices often still contain dietary fiber, though not as much as if a person eats the fruit or vegetable raw. The following sections explore the reasons why juices can help relieve constipation. Juices also contain large quantities of water, which may help soften hard stool while keeping the body hydrated.
Some juices made from fruits and vegetables contain dietary fiber and sorbitol, both of which help regulate bowel movements.
People also run the risk of developing a physical dependence on laxatives.ĭrinking certain juices may relieve constipation in some people. Taking over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives can help as a short-term solution, but they can cause unintended side effects, such as dehydration. In most cases of occasional constipation, making diet and lifestyle changes is very effective for relieving symptoms. Stool that remains in the digestive tract will harden over time, making it difficult and sometimes painful to pass. Share on Pinterest Juices can contain fiber and sorbitol, which help regulate bowel movements.Ĭonstipation occurs when a person has fewer than three bowel movements per week.