What juices are effective for constipation relief. How does prune juice help with bowel movements. Can apple juice alleviate constipation symptoms. What are the benefits of pear juice for digestive health. How much juice should you drink to relieve constipation. Are there other natural remedies for constipation besides juices. When should you seek medical advice for chronic constipation.

Understanding Constipation: Causes and Symptoms

Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects many people at various points in their lives. It occurs when waste moves too slowly through the digestive system, resulting in hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. But what exactly qualifies as constipation?

Typically, constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. However, the frequency of bowel movements can vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience constipation even if they’re having regular movements.

Common Symptoms of Constipation

• Infrequent bowel movements
• Hard or lumpy stools
• Straining during bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Need for manual assistance to empty the rectum

Is constipation always a cause for concern? While occasional constipation is generally not serious, chronic constipation can lead to complications and may require medical attention. It’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent discomfort and potential health problems.

The Role of Juices in Constipation Relief

When it comes to finding relief from constipation, many people turn to natural remedies, with juices being a popular choice. But how effective are juices in alleviating constipation symptoms?

Certain juices can indeed help relieve constipation by increasing the water content in the intestines and promoting bowel movements. The effectiveness of juices in treating constipation is often attributed to their fiber content and the presence of natural compounds like sorbitol, which can have a laxative effect.

Recommended Juice Intake for Constipation Relief

According to the Cleveland Clinic, adults should consume between half a cup to a full cup of juice once daily, preferably in the morning, for optimal results. This moderate approach helps prevent potential side effects while still providing the desired benefits.

Do you need to drink large quantities of juice to see results? Not necessarily. A small amount of the right juice can be effective in stimulating bowel movements. It’s crucial to balance juice intake with other fluids, aiming for at least eight cups of liquid daily to maintain proper hydration and support regular bowel function.

Prune Juice: The Champion of Constipation Relief

When it comes to juices for constipation relief, prune juice stands out as the most popular and effective option. But what makes prune juice so beneficial for digestive health?

Prune juice is rich in fiber, with each 8-ounce glass containing approximately 2.6 grams of fiber, which is about 10% of the daily recommended intake. The fiber in prune juice helps bulk up stools, while its high sorbitol content softens them, making them easier to pass.

Additional Benefits of Prune Juice

• Good source of vitamin C
• Contains iron
• May be considered a first-line therapy for mild to moderate constipation

Is prune juice the only way to harness the digestive benefits of prunes? Not at all. Eating dried plums or prunes can also be an effective way to prevent and alleviate constipation. A 2011 study suggested that prunes should be considered a primary treatment option for mild to moderate constipation.

Apple Juice: A Gentle Approach to Constipation Relief

While not as potent as prune juice, apple juice can provide a mild laxative effect, making it a popular choice for those seeking a gentler approach to constipation relief. What makes apple juice effective for this purpose?

Apple juice contains a relatively high ratio of fructose to glucose and sorbitol content. This composition can help stimulate bowel movements, particularly in children who are experiencing constipation.

Apple Juice vs. Applesauce for Constipation

It’s important to note that while apple juice may help with constipation, applesauce has the opposite effect. Why is this the case? Applesauce contains higher levels of pectin, a substance that adds bulk to stools and can make them firmer and more difficult to pass. For this reason, applesauce is often recommended after episodes of diarrhea rather than for constipation relief.

Are there any potential drawbacks to using apple juice for constipation? In large doses, apple juice may cause intestinal discomfort due to its high fructose and sorbitol content. Therefore, it’s best to consume it in moderation and observe how your body responds.

Pear Juice: An Underrated Constipation Remedy

Pear juice is another excellent option for those seeking relief from constipation. What sets pear juice apart from other fruit juices in terms of constipation relief?

Pear juice contains four times more sorbitol than apple juice, making it potentially more effective in stimulating bowel movements. This high sorbitol content contributes to its laxative effect, helping to soften stools and promote easier passage.

Benefits of Pear Juice for Constipation

• High sorbitol content
• Mild, pleasant flavor (often preferred by children)
• Can be effective for both adults and children

While pear juice may not be as rich in vitamins as prune juice, its palatability makes it a popular choice, especially for children experiencing constipation. How does pear juice compare to other juices in terms of taste? Many find its flavor more appealing than prune juice, which can be an important factor in ensuring consistent consumption for constipation relief.

Other Beverages and Natural Remedies for Constipation

While fruit juices are popular choices for constipation relief, there are other beverages and natural remedies that can also help alleviate symptoms. What alternatives can you consider if fruit juices aren’t your preference?

Warm Lemon Water

A simple yet effective remedy is mixing a squeeze of lemon juice into a glass of warm water. How does this combination help with constipation? The warm water helps stimulate bowel movements, while the lemon juice may have a mild laxative effect.

Coffee and Teas

Both coffee and certain teas can have a stimulating effect on the digestive system. Which teas are particularly beneficial for constipation? Herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, and senna are known for their digestive benefits and may help relieve constipation.

Warm Fluids

In general, consuming warm or hot fluids can help stimulate bowel movements. Why are warm fluids more effective than cold ones? The warmth can help relax the intestinal muscles, making it easier for waste to pass through.

Are there any beverages you should avoid when dealing with constipation? It’s best to steer clear of carbonated drinks until your constipation resolves, as these can potentially exacerbate bloating and discomfort.

The Science Behind Juice’s Effectiveness in Constipation Relief

Understanding the mechanisms by which juices help alleviate constipation can provide insight into their effectiveness. What scientific evidence supports the use of juices for constipation relief?

A 2010 study found that certain juices can increase the water content and frequency of bowel movements. The key component responsible for this effect is sorbitol, a nonabsorbable carbohydrate found naturally in many fruits.

How Sorbitol Works

1. Sorbitol is not fully digested in the small intestine
2. It draws water into the large intestine
3. This increased water content softens stools
4. Softer stools are easier to pass, alleviating constipation

Which juices are most effective due to their sorbitol content? Prune, apple, and pear juices are particularly high in sorbitol, making them more potent options for constipation relief.

Is sorbitol the only factor contributing to the laxative effect of juices? While sorbitol plays a significant role, the fiber content and other nutrients in these juices also contribute to their effectiveness in promoting digestive health.

Considerations and Precautions When Using Juices for Constipation

While juices can be an effective and convenient remedy for constipation, there are some important considerations and precautions to keep in mind. Who should be cautious about using juices for constipation relief?

Infants and Young Children

Constipation in infants typically begins after the introduction of solid foods. Is juice appropriate for relieving constipation in infants? It’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician before giving any juice to infants or young children, as their digestive systems are more sensitive and have different nutritional needs.

Individuals with Certain Health Conditions

For people with certain health conditions or dietary restrictions, juice may not be a suitable option for constipation relief. Which conditions might preclude the use of juice as a remedy?

• Diabetes (due to high sugar content in some juices)
• Kidney disease (due to high potassium content in some juices)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) (some juices may exacerbate symptoms)

If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about using juice for constipation relief, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your diet.

Moderation is Key

While juices can be beneficial for constipation relief, consuming them in excess can lead to unintended consequences. What are the potential risks of drinking too much juice?

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramping
• Bloating
• Excessive calorie intake
• Tooth decay (due to high sugar content)

To avoid these issues, stick to the recommended serving sizes and balance juice intake with other fluids and a fiber-rich diet.

Beyond Juices: Comprehensive Approach to Constipation Relief

While juices can be an effective tool in managing constipation, it’s important to adopt a comprehensive approach to maintain regular bowel movements and overall digestive health. What other strategies can complement the use of juices for constipation relief?

Dietary Modifications

Incorporating more fiber-rich foods into your diet can significantly improve bowel regularity. Which foods are particularly beneficial for preventing constipation?

• Whole grains
• Leafy green vegetables
• Legumes
• Fresh fruits (with edible skins)
• Nuts and seeds

Hydration

Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining soft, easy-to-pass stools. How much water should you drink daily to support digestive health? Aim for at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, adjusting based on your activity level and climate.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise can stimulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive function. How does physical activity help with constipation? Exercise increases blood flow to the digestive tract and can help strengthen the muscles involved in bowel movements.

Establishing a Routine

Creating a regular bathroom routine can help train your body to have more consistent bowel movements. What does this involve? Try to use the bathroom at the same time each day, preferably after meals when the gastrocolic reflex is strongest.

By combining these strategies with the judicious use of juices, you can develop a comprehensive approach to managing and preventing constipation, promoting overall digestive health and well-being.

3 Juices Good for Constipation Relief

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Certain juices, including prune juice, may help relieve symptoms of constipation. The laxative effect can vary by the amount of fiber and other nutrients they contain.

Many people experience constipation from time to time, and it can be uncomfortable.

In general, occasional constipation occurs when waste moves through your digestive system too slowly. It can build up and become hard and dry, making stool difficult to pass.

When you need relief, there are some home remedies that can get things moving again, like sipping certain juices.

Constipation is usually defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. Even if you’re going to the bathroom somewhat regularly, trouble passing your stools may be another sign of this condition.

The symptoms of constipation include:

• infrequent bowel movements
• hard or lumpy stools
• straining to have bowel movements
• feeling blocked up or like you can’t fully empty your bowels
• needing help to empty your rectum, such as with your hands or fingers

If you decide to try drinking juice to relieve constipation, keep in mind that a small amount of juice may be all you need.

For best results, the Cleveland Clinic recommends adults drink just a half to a full cup of juice, once per day, preferably in the morning.

In general, aim to drink eight or more cups of liquid each day to help stay regular.

Prune juice

The most popular juice to relieve constipation is prune juice. Each 8-ounce glass contains about 2.6 grams of fiber. That’s about 10 percent of your daily requirement.

While the fiber may bulk up your stools, the sorbitol in the prune juice helps soften them, making them easier to pass. Prune juice is also a good source of vitamin C and iron.

Eating dried plums or prunes is another way to ward off constipation. In fact, one 2011 study suggests that prunes should be considered a first-line therapy when dealing with mild to moderate constipation.

Shop for prune juice now.

Apple juice

Apple juice may provide you with a very gentle laxative effect. It’s often recommended for children who have constipation because it has a relatively high ratio of fructose to glucose and sorbitol content.

But for this reason, it may also cause intestinal discomfort in large doses.

You might think that eating applesauce would help constipation, but that’s not the case. Applesauce contains a higher level of pectin than apple juice.

Pectin is a substance that will add bulk to your stool. It becomes firmer and more difficult to pass, making it a better choice after episodes of diarrhea.

Buy apple juice here.

Pear juice

Another great option is pear juice, which contains four times more sorbitol than apple juice. This juice is also often recommended for children who have bouts of constipation.

Pear juice isn’t as rich in vitamins as prune juice, but many kids prefer its flavor.

Get pear juice online.

Other beverages

You may also get some relief from mixing a squeeze of lemon juice into a glass of warm water. Other beverages that may help include coffee, teas, and warm or hot fluids in general.

It’s best to stay away from carbonated drinks until your constipation clears up.

In a study from 2010, researchers found that certain juices can help increase the water content and frequency of bowel movements. These juices contain sorbitol, which is a nonabsorbable carbohydrate.

Juice can be a convenient remedy to try at home. Most pasteurized juices have the potential to help relieve constipation. But juices that contain naturally-occurring sorbitol, including prune, apple, and pear juices, may be more effective.

Juice is a good option for people of most ages but not necessarily for infants. Constipation in infants typically starts to happen after the introduction of solids.

Contact your baby’s pediatrician for instructions on what you can give to your baby if they’re constipated.

Speak with your doctor if you’re constipated but have concerns about drinking juice. If you have a condition that requires you to follow a restricted diet, juice may not be a good option for you.

For example, if you have diabetes, your doctor or dietitian might advise you to avoid beverages that contain sugar, including juice.

The American Diabetes Association suggests choosing juices that are 100 percent juice with no sugar added. On average, 4 ounces — about half a cup — of juice contains about 15 carbohydrates and 50 or more calories.

In general, it’s a good idea to limit your juice intake. An excess of the sugars contained in juices, like fructose, can cause abdominal troubles due to malabsorption.

Children under age 10 are particularly vulnerable to gastrointestinal distress. It often presents as diarrhea and stomach pains.

Occasional bouts of constipation usually aren’t a cause for concern. But when constipation occurs frequently or lasts for several weeks or longer, other complications can arise.

The complications of constipation can include:

• hemorrhoids
• anal fissures
• fecal impaction
• rectal prolapse

Some people are at higher risk of constipation, including:

• older adults
• women
• people who are dehydrated
• people with poor diets
• people who don’t get enough exercise
• people who are taking certain medications, such as sedatives and narcotics

Along with consuming more fluids and fruit juices, you can make other lifestyle changes that may help your constipation.

• Try getting more exercise, like walking, most days of the week.
• Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure you get enough fiber.
• Don’t hold in bowel movements. If you feel the urge to go, head to the bathroom as soon as you can.
• Sprinkle a few tablespoons of unprocessed wheat bran on your cereal, smoothies, and other foods.

If lifestyle choices don’t help, contact your doctor. You may have an underlying issue that’s causing your constipation. Your doctor may also talk to you about treatment options to help you become regular again.

Monitor your bowel movements to see if the juice is helping. Even if you don’t notice a difference, it’s best not to increase your intake. Drinking more juice could lead to diarrhea and other types of abdominal discomfort.

If you notice a sudden change in your bowel movements, it’s a good idea to see your doctor for a checkup, especially if the change is ongoing or causing you discomfort.

Tell your doctor if your constipation symptoms persist for three months or more. You may have chronic constipation. It’s a good idea to let your doctor know if you have notable and persistent changes in your bowel habits.

Intermittent Fasting: What is it, and how does it work?

Intermittent fasting is an eating plan that switches between fasting and
eating on a regular schedule. Research shows that intermittent fasting is a
way to manage your weight and prevent — or even reverse — some forms of
disease. But how do you do it? And is it safe?

What is intermittent fasting?

Many diets focus on what to eat, but intermittent fasting is all
about when you eat.

With intermittent fasting, you only eat during a specific time. Research
shows fasting for a certain number of hours each day or eating just one
meal a couple days a week may have health benefits.

Johns Hopkins neuroscientist Mark Mattson
has studied intermittent fasting for 25 years. He says our bodies have
evolved to be able to go without food for many hours, or even several days
or longer. In prehistoric times, before humans learned to farm, they were
hunters and gatherers who evolved to survive — and thrive — for long
periods without eating. They had to: It took a lot of time and energy to
hunt game and gather nuts and berries.

Experts note that even 50 years ago, it was easier to maintain a healthy
weight in the United States. There were no computers, and TV shows turned
off at 11 p.m.; people stopped eating because they went to bed. Portions
were much smaller. More people worked and played outside and, in general,
got more exercise.

With internet, TV and other entertainment available 24/7, many adults and
children stay awake for longer hours to watch TV, scroll through social
media, play games and chat online. That can mean sitting and snacking all
day — and most of the night.

Extra calories and less activity can mean a higher risk of obesity, type 2
diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses. Scientific studies are showing
that intermittent fasting may help reverse these trends.

How does intermittent fasting work?

There are several different ways to do intermittent fasting, but they are
all based on choosing regular time periods to eat and fast. For instance,
you might try eating only during an eight-hour period each day and fast for
the remainder. Or you might choose to eat only one meal a day two days a
week. There are many different intermittent fasting schedules.

Mattson says that after hours without food, the body exhausts its sugar
stores and starts burning fat. He refers to this as metabolic switching.

“Intermittent fasting contrasts with the normal eating pattern for most
Americans, who eat throughout their waking hours,” Mattson says. “If
someone is eating three meals a day, plus snacks, and they’re not
exercising, then every time they eat, they’re running on those calories and
not burning their fat stores.”

Intermittent fasting works by prolonging the period when your body has
burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins
burning fat.

Intermittent Fasting Plans

It’s important to check with your doctor before starting intermittent fasting. Once you get his or her go-ahead, the actual practice is simple. You can pick a daily approach, which restricts daily eating to one six- to eight-hour period each day. For instance, you may choose to try 16/8 fasting: eating for eight hours and fasting for 16.

Although some people find it easy to stick with this pattern over the long term, one research study that was not designed specifically to look at an intermittent fasting pattern found that limiting your daily time window of eating does not prevent weight gain over time or yield significant weight loss results. That study’s results showed that reducing the number of large meals or eating more small meals may be associated with minimizing weight gain or even with weight loss over time.

Another intermittent fasting plan, known as the 5:2 approach, involves eating regularly five days a week. For the other two days, you limit yourself to one 500–600 calorie meal. An example would be if you chose to eat normally on every day of the week except Mondays and Thursdays, which would be your one-meal days.

Longer periods without food, such as 24-, 36-, 48- and 72-hour fasting periods, are not necessarily better for you, and may be dangerous. Going too long without eating might actually encourage your body to start storing more fat in response to starvation.

Mattson’s research shows that it can take two to four weeks before the body becomes accustomed to intermittent fasting. You might feel hungry or cranky while you’re getting used to the new routine. But, he observes, research subjects who make it through the adjustment period tend to stick with the plan because they notice they feel better.

What can I eat while intermittent fasting?

During the times when you’re not eating, water and zero-calorie beverages such as black coffee and tea are permitted.

During your eating periods, “eating normally” does not mean going crazy. Research shows that you’re not likely to lose weight or get healthier if you pack your feeding times with high-calorie junk food, super-sized fried items and treats.

But what some experts like about intermittent fasting is that it allows for a range of different foods to be eaten — and enjoyed. Sharing good, nutritious food with others and savoring the mealtime experience adds satisfaction and supports good health.

Most nutrition experts regard the Mediterranean diet as a good blueprint of what to eat, whether you’re trying intermittent fasting or not. You can hardly go wrong when you pick leafy greens, healthy fats, lean protein and complex, unrefined carbohydrates such as whole grains.

Intermittent Fasting Benefits

Research shows that the intermittent fasting periods do more than burn fat. Mattson explains, “When changes occur with this metabolic switch, it affects the body and brain. ”

One of Mattson’s studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed data about a range of health benefits associated with the practice. These include a longer life, a leaner body and a sharper mind.

“Many things happen during intermittent fasting that can protect organs against chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, age-related neurodegenerative disorders, even inflammatory bowel disease and many cancers,” he says.

Here are some intermittent fasting benefits research has revealed so far:

• Thinking and memory. Studies discovered that intermittent fasting boosts working memory in animals and verbal memory in adult humans.
• Heart health. Intermittent fasting improved blood pressure and resting heart rates as well as other heart-related measurements.
• Physical performance. Young men who fasted for 16 hours showed fat loss while maintaining muscle mass. Mice who were fed on alternate days showed better endurance in running.
• Type 2 diabetes and obesity. In animal studies, intermittent fasting prevented obesity. And, in six brief studies, obese adult humans lost weight through intermittent fasting. People with type 2 diabetes may benefit: Most of the available research shows that intermittent fasting can help people lose body weight and lower their levels of fasting glucose, fasting insulin and leptin while reducing insulin resistance, decreasing levels of leptin and increasing levels of adiponectin. Certain studies found that some patients practicing intermittent fasting with supervision by their doctors were able to reverse their need for insulin therapy.
• Tissue health. In animals, intermittent fasting reduced tissue damage in surgery and improved results.

Is intermittent fasting safe?

Some people try intermitting fasting for weight management, and others use the method to address chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, high cholesterol or arthritis. But intermittent fasting isn’t for everyone.

Williams stresses that before you try intermittent fasting (or any diet), you should check in with your primary care practitioner first. Some people should steer clear of trying intermittent fasting:

• Children and teens under age 18.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• People with type 1 diabetes who take insulin. While an increasing number of clinical trials have shown that intermittent fasting is safe in people with type 2 diabetes, there have been no studies in people with type I diabetes. Mattson explains, “Because those with type I diabetes take insulin, there is a concern that an intermittent fasting eating pattern may result in unsafe levels of hypoglycemia during the fasting period.”
• Those with a history of eating disorders.

But, Williams says, people not in these categories who can do intermittent fasting safely can continue the regimen indefinitely. “It can be a lifestyle change,” she says, “and one with benefits. ”

Keep in mind that intermittent fasting may have different effects on different people. Talk to your doctor if you start experiencing unusual anxiety, headaches, nausea or other symptoms after you start intermittent fasting.

Causes of children’s constipation and treatment – Encyclopedia Baby food

Levchuk Victoria ©

The child did not have bowel movements for 3 or more days – is it normal or constipated? Infrequent bowel movements of the child hard and dry – the norm or constipation? Find answers to these questions and learn all about constipation in babies.

There are many causes of infantile constipation. One of the most common causes of constipation in children is the introduction of solid foods.

Table of contents:

• Introduction of solid foods – breastfed infants may be more prone to constipation when complementary foods are introduced. This is because their tiny tummies only absorb mother’s milk easily and well.
• Diets low in fiber
• Diets with excessive amounts of dairy products (yogurt, cheeses, milk)
• Foods such as bananas, applesauce, cereals, bread, pasta and white potatoes may contribute to or cause constipation

A change in diet usually relieves constipation. The following tips will also help to cope with constipation in a child.

How to treat constipation in babies

There are many remedies that can help relieve constipation in a child. You can change the way you feed your baby and/or do some exercise.

Exercises to help relieve constipation in babies include:

• Stomach Massage – Gently massage and rub the baby’s stomach in a clockwise direction. Put your hands on the navel and massage in a circular motion, moving your hands, from the center of the baby’s abdomen.
• Bicycle (Legs) – Place the child on his back and keep his legs slightly bent. Carefully begin to move the child’s legs, as if he were riding a bicycle. Also, the “bike” will help relieve the colic of the child.
• Warm bath – Some health professionals suggest giving a child with constipation a warm bath. The idea is to help the child relax and “get the ball rolling”. And then do a tummy massage when the baby cools down.

Relieve constipation in infants under 4 months of age:

Do all of the above exercises. Be sure to check with your pediatrician about the advisability of introducing new foods/fluids to help relieve constipation. It should also be taken into account that if the child farts, then most likely there will be a bowel movement soon, because before the introduction of complementary foods, the baby may not go to the toilet for up to 5 days, which means that the milk is completely absorbed.

Relieve constipation in infants 4 to 12 months+ by changing dietary intake

Adding more fiber to a child’s diet will help get things moving. Try foods that are high in fiber, such as:

• apricots
• prunes
• peaches
• plums
• pears
• peas

9001 1 spinach

For older children who are just starting complementary foods, you can avoid foods such as rice, applesauce and bananas in baby food as they can aggravate constipation.

If the child suffers from constipation, then it is necessary to put him on the opposite diet from BRAT.

BRAT diet is used to treat diarrhea in young children because the foods in it help to thicken the stool. The easiest and most natural way to remember how to help relieve constipation in a child is to avoid foods that affect him! BRAT diet suggests eating:

• Bananas,
• Rice,
• Applesauce and
• Toast

If you ever forget what foods you should give up in your diet, then just remember the name Brat diet!

Barley or oatmeal, prunes, peaches, plums, apricots, and most vegetables are preferred foods when a child is constipated.

Juices are useful, especially apple or plum juices, but should be used in moderation as they are not as nutritious for babies as formula or breast milk.

Why can I give my child apple juice but NOT applesauce?

There is a difference in the amount of sugar and pectin in apple juice and apple puree.

Apple juice contains more sugar and liquid, so it helps relieve constipation.

Applesauce is the whole fruit. It may contain higher levels of pectin – and can lead to constipation.

Apple juice also has a mild laxative effect, which can help provide relief from bowel movements commonly experienced by young children.

Apples contain pectin, which will add bulk to the stool and, with its cleansing action, will stimulate intestinal motility. They have a laxative effect, but are also used to help people return to normal eating habits after suffering bouts of diarrhea.

Pectin is found in apple fiber, which is probably why whole apples thicken stools. In addition, the same pectin is an excellent prophylactic against constipation, so that the intestines work regularly and prevent constipation. However, it must be understood that this will help prevent constipation by helping to keep the intestines in good condition, but will not help relieve constipation.

When it comes to proper bowel function, apples contain two types of fiber; insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fiber works like roughage, while soluble fiber (pectin), which is found primarily in the skin, acts as a stool softener by drawing water into the stool and increasing stool bulk. Since pectin strengthens excessively loose stools, it is also used to treat diarrhea.

It must be remembered that a pediatrician’s consultation regarding the introduction of complementary foods for the baby and discussion of any new products, in order to avoid food allergies, is mandatory.

Constipation in breastfed and formula fed babies

Breastfed babies may become constipated when complementary foods are introduced, but not as severely as formula fed babies. When breastfeeding, babies experience less discomfort with stools, since breast milk is almost 100% completely digested and used by the growing body of the child. Breast milk leaves little “residue” to cause constipation. Many breastfed babies have infrequent bowel movements, but this does not mean that they are constipated.

Formula-fed babies tend to have more constipation than breastfed babies. Unlike breast milk, formula is not easily absorbed by the body and is not completely absorbed and used by the baby’s body.

Excessive consumption of rice cereals, bananas and applesauce and other similar foods are among the most common causes of constipation.

Some products strengthen, others weaken, why?

10 Oct 2022 18:35:00

Simply put, easily digestible foods containing little fiber do not make the intestines work and strengthen accordingly (rice, white bread). Products
containing a large amount of fiber and coarse fibers (vegetables and fruits) weaken. By irritating the intestinal walls, they cause it to contract, pushing food through
forward.

As a natural remedy for constipation and to stimulate work
intestines in a child, use the extraction of vegetables and herbs (squeeze juice from carrots, parsley, beets and other vegetables, the remaining fibers and there will be coarse fibers in a clean
form).

An exercise that stimulates intestinal motility helps with constipation in a child: bend the left leg and right arm and reach with the elbow to
knee 15 times, then vice versa.

If the child has constipation, half a glass of warm water on an empty stomach in the morning will help. And then, during the day, you can add a little (for a child 3
years, no more than 1 tsp) of vegetable or olive oil in food (for example, in stewed vegetables).

Baked apples and pears (pectins) are also useful for constipation. But raw grated
an apple on an empty stomach (a recipe that helps with constipation in adults) is strictly forbidden for children. Since children already have an increased level of gastric secretion.

“Which foods strengthen and which weaken?”

Fortify:

Eggplant

Biscuits (from premium flour)

Gran at

Fatty meat

Mashed potatoes

Meat broth (strong)

Mint tea

Bananas (underripe, green)

Pears (underripe, hard)

Oak bark decoction

Rice (white, not washed)

premium flour)

Chamomile tea

Tea

Persimmon

Blueberry

Aronia

Chocolate

Applesauce (namely puree!)

Weak:

Apricots

Avocado

Pineapple

Oranges

Bananas (
overripe, soft)

Cherry

Peas

Pears (overripe, soft)

Melon

Cabbage (boiled)

Kiwi

Strawberries

Zucchini

Seaweed (kelp)

Tomatoes

Beans

Cherries

Prunes

Spinach

Apples (whole)

Sour milk
products , from the date of manufacture of which no more than 1 day has passed – weaken.