Best Drinks for Quick Constipation Relief: Natural Remedies for Digestive Health
Constipation is a common digestive issue that many people face throughout their lives. This problem can be caused by various factors such as poor diet, insufficient liquid intake, and even a sedentary lifestyle. Although there are various medications available for treating constipation, many people seek natural and healthy remedies to address this issue.
One of the best natural ways to treat constipation is by consuming beneficial drinks that can help improve bowel movements and enhance digestion. In this article, we will introduce the best drinks for treating constipation and also discuss the causes and reasons for constipation and its impact on pregnant women.
Causes of Constipation
Constipation usually occurs due to reduced natural bowel movements and the accumulation of waste in the digestive system. One of the main causes of constipation is insufficient fiber intake in the diet. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps make bowel movements faster and easier. A lack of fiber is often due to the excessive consumption of processed and fiber-deficient foods such as fast foods and fried foods.
Other factors that can lead to constipation include insufficient liquid intake, lack of physical activity, stress, and the use of certain medications such as antidepressants and strong painkillers. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as travel or changes in dietary routines, can also lead to constipation. Paying attention to these factors and correcting them can help prevent and treat constipation.
Constipation in Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are more prone to constipation due to hormonal changes and physical pressures on the digestive system. In pregnancy, the hormone progesterone causes the muscles of the digestive system to relax, which can reduce bowel movements and result in constipation. Additionally, the use of iron supplements in pregnancy, which are used to prevent anemia, can exacerbate constipation during this period.
Moreover, the pressure of the fetus on the intestines can also reduce natural bowel movements and cause constipation in pregnant women. To combat constipation in pregnancy, adequate liquid intake, a high-fiber diet, and mild physical exercises are very effective. Additionally, consuming natural drinks such as prune juice and chia seeds can help improve bowel movements and reduce constipation during this period.
Prune Juice for Constipation Relief
Prune juice is one of the most famous and effective natural drinks for treating constipation. This drink is rich in fiber and sorbitol, both of which help improve bowel movements and reduce constipation. Sorbitol is a natural sugar that absorbs water into the intestines, softening the stool and facilitating its passage. Consuming prune juice can help speed up the digestion process and reduce constipation symptoms.
Preparation Method
To prepare prune juice, soak a few dried prunes in water and let them sit for a few hours. Then, blend them with the same water until you get a smooth drink. You can consume this drink once or twice a day to benefit from its properties for treating constipation.
Coffee for Constipation Relief
Due to its caffeine content, coffee can be a natural stimulant for bowel movements. Drinking coffee helps stimulate the muscles of the intestines and increases natural bowel movements. This feature of coffee can help improve constipation, especially in people who suffer from reduced bowel activity.
However, it should be noted that excessive coffee consumption can lead to dehydration, which may worsen constipation. Therefore, it is better to consume coffee in moderation and beside sufficient liquid intake. Drinking one or two cups of coffee a day can help stimulate the intestines and improve constipation.
Chia Seed Drink for Constipation Relief
Chia seeds are a rich source of fiber that can help regulate bowel movements and reduce constipation. These seeds absorb water and turn into a gel-like substance in the intestines, softening the stool and facilitating its passage. Regular consumption of chia seeds can help improve digestive function and reduce constipation symptoms.
Preparation Method
To prepare a chia seed drink, add one tablespoon of chia seeds to a glass of water or natural juice and let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes until the seeds become gel-like. Then, drink this mixture. Chia seeds can also be used in combination with smoothies or other flavored waters.
Types of Smoothies for Constipation Relief
Smoothies are one of the best options for simultaneously getting fiber and liquids. By combining various fruits and vegetables, you can make smoothies that help facilitate bowel movements and reduce constipation. Here are three types of smoothies suitable for treating constipation:
Banana and Spinach Smoothie
This smoothie, combining potassium-rich bananas and fiber-rich spinach, helps improve bowel movements and reduce constipation.
Preparation Method
Blend one banana, one cup of fresh spinach, half a cup of almond milk, and one tablespoon of chia seeds.
Prune and Apricot Smoothie
Both prunes and apricots are fruits that contain fiber and sorbitol, which help improve constipation.
Preparation Method
Blend two prunes, two apricots, one glass of water, and some ice to make a delicious and nutritious drink for relieving constipation.
Strawberry and Kiwi Smoothie
Strawberries and kiwis are both rich in vitamin C and soluble fiber, which can help reduce constipation.
Preparation Method
Blend a few fresh strawberries, one kiwi, half a cup of probiotic yogurt, and one tablespoon of honey as a laxative smoothie.
5 Popular Juices for Quick Constipation Relief
- Apple Juice: Apple juice contains pectin, which helps regulate bowel movements and can reduce constipation.
- Pear Juice: Pears are rich in fiber and water, and pear juice can help soften the stool and facilitate its passage.
- Carrot Juice: Carrots contain soluble fiber, and their juice can help improve digestive function and relieve constipation.
- Orange Juice: Orange juice, due to its vitamin C and fiber content, helps increase bowel movements and reduce constipation.
- Celery Juice: Celery is high in fiber and water, and consuming celery juice can help improve digestion and reduce constipation.
Conclusion
Constipation is a common digestive problem that can be quickly treated with dietary changes and the consumption of appropriate drinks. Drinks such as prune juice, coffee, chia seeds, and various smoothies can naturally and healthily improve bowel movements and reduce constipation. By regularly consuming these drinks and following a proper diet, you can prevent the recurrence of constipation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is excessive consumption of prune juice harmful for constipation?
Excessive consumption of prune juice may cause bloating and gas in some people. It is better to consume it in moderation.
- Does coffee always help with constipation?
Coffee can stimulate bowel movements, but excessive consumption may lead to dehydration, which can worsen constipation.
- Which drink is suitable for constipation in pregnant women?
Prune juice and drinks containing chia seeds are suitable for pregnant women. However, it is best to consult a doctor before consuming any drink.
- How long does it take for drinks to have effect?
Depending on the severity of constipation and the type of drink, it may take between 6 to 12 hours for the effects to be felt.
- Is daily consumption of smoothies beneficial for preventing constipation?
Yes, daily consumption of fiber-rich smoothies can help prevent constipation and regulate bowel movements.
