Prunes for constipation

Prunes and Constipation

Constipation is a problem that just about everyone has experiences in their lives, and one of the best natural remedies has always been eating prunes.

Not only do they help with constipation, but prunes also have other excellent health benefits.

Constipation is when a patient has three or less bowel movements a week. They may often have stomach cramps, gas, bloated stomachs, nausea, headaches, and a loss of appetite.

Usually people would rather try a home remedy for constipation instead of buying some product in the pharmacy, because constipation can sometimes be an embarrassing problem.

Prunes are one of the best natural remedies for constipation and this is why.

Dietary Fiber

Prunes have high levels of fiber in them, which the digestive system cannot process. Fiber, therefore, remains in the colon and adds weight to the waste that is already present. Fiber also pulls water into the stool and will make it slipper, which will allow it to pass much easier and faster, which in turn ends the constipation a person is experiencing.

Prunes also have a lot of soluble fiber, which can get rid of constipation. It is important to drink more fluids when eating prunes for constipation because the fiber will absorb all the water in the digestive tract quickly. Potassium

Prunes also have a lot of potassium and vitamin A, which also help with constipation. These minerals and vitamins activate enzymes in the digestive system, which dissolve feces in the colon. Potassium also helps with puling water out of the body and into the colon. It can also protect the colon wall from bacteria. A lack of potassium in the body leads to the tension that often causes constipation. Laxative properties

Prunes also work as a natural laxative and actually work better than any chemical ones that can be bought in a store. Prunes are also all natural and do not cause diarrhea and dehydration like some store-bought laxatives do.

However, if the digestive system is a little to weak to process the prunes, which are very powerful, it might be better to drink prune juice instead. They are just as beneficial, but not as strong on the stomach.

Prune juice is also light enough that it can treat constipation in infants as well. Side effects

There may e some side effects with the consumption of prunes, however. The contain oxalates, which can cause problems with calcium absorption by the body and prunes need to be avoided by people who have problems with their kidneys and gallbladders as well.