How can certain juices help relieve constipation. What are the most effective natural remedies for constipation relief. Which juices contain sorbitol and how does it aid digestion. Why is prune juice considered a first-line therapy for mild to moderate constipation. How do apple and pear juices compare in their laxative effects.

Understanding Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevalence

Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects many individuals 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. The condition is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, but it can also manifest as difficulty in passing stools even with regular bathroom visits.

Common symptoms of constipation include:

• 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

Constipation can be caused by various factors, including dietary habits, dehydration, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. While occasional constipation is generally not a cause for concern, chronic constipation may require medical attention.

The Power of Juices in Constipation Relief

Certain juices have gained popularity as natural remedies for constipation due to their potential laxative effects. These juices often contain specific compounds that can help soften stools, increase water content in the digestive tract, and promote bowel movements.

How do juices help alleviate constipation? Many juices contain natural sugars and fibers that can act as gentle laxatives. Some juices, particularly those rich in sorbitol, a non-absorbable carbohydrate, can help increase the water content in stools and stimulate bowel movements. Additionally, the high liquid content in juices can contribute to overall hydration, which is essential for maintaining regular bowel function.

Recommended Juice Consumption for Constipation Relief

When using juices to address constipation, moderation is key. The Cleveland Clinic recommends that adults consume half to one full cup of juice once per day, preferably in the morning, for optimal results. This controlled intake helps prevent potential side effects such as excessive gas or diarrhea that may occur with overconsumption.

It’s important to note that while juices can be beneficial, they should be part of a broader approach to digestive health. Maintaining adequate hydration by consuming at least eight cups of fluids daily, including water and other beverages, is crucial for regularity.

Prune Juice: The Gold Standard for Constipation Relief

Prune juice stands out as the most renowned and effective juice for alleviating constipation. What makes prune juice so effective in relieving constipation? Its efficacy can be attributed to its unique composition of fiber and sorbitol.

An 8-ounce glass of prune juice contains approximately:

• 2.6 grams of fiber (about 10% of the daily requirement)
• A significant amount of sorbitol
• Vitamin C
• Iron

The fiber in prune juice helps add bulk to stools, while the sorbitol acts as a natural laxative by drawing water into the intestines, softening the stool and making it easier to pass. This dual-action mechanism makes prune juice particularly effective in promoting bowel movements.

A 2011 study suggested that prunes and prune juice should be considered a first-line therapy for mild to moderate constipation. This recommendation is based on the consistent positive results observed in clinical trials and the relatively low risk of side effects compared to other laxatives.

Apple Juice: A Gentle Approach to Constipation Relief

Apple juice is another popular choice for addressing constipation, particularly in children. Its effectiveness stems from its composition of fructose, glucose, and sorbitol. How does apple juice compare to other juices in relieving constipation?

While not as potent as prune juice, apple juice offers a milder laxative effect, making it suitable for those with sensitive digestive systems or for children who may not tolerate stronger juices. The relatively high ratio of fructose to glucose and the presence of sorbitol contribute to its gentle laxative properties.

However, it’s important to note that consuming large quantities of apple juice may lead to intestinal discomfort due to its sugar content. Therefore, moderation is key when using apple juice for constipation relief.

Applesauce vs. Apple Juice for Constipation

Interestingly, while apple juice can help alleviate constipation, applesauce may have the opposite effect. Why does applesauce not help with constipation? The difference lies in the pectin content. Applesauce contains higher levels of pectin, a soluble fiber that adds bulk to stools, potentially making them firmer and more difficult to pass. For this reason, applesauce is often recommended after episodes of diarrhea rather than for constipation relief.

Pear Juice: A Potent Alternative for Constipation Relief

Pear juice emerges as another effective option for constipation relief, particularly noteworthy for its high sorbitol content. How does pear juice compare to apple juice in terms of laxative effects?

Pear juice contains approximately four times more sorbitol than apple juice, making it a more potent natural laxative. This higher sorbitol content can lead to a stronger effect on bowel movements, potentially providing faster relief from constipation.

While pear juice may not be as rich in vitamins as prune juice, its milder flavor often makes it more palatable, especially for children. This palatability factor can be particularly beneficial when dealing with constipation in younger individuals who may be resistant to stronger-tasting juices.

Other Beverages and Natural Remedies for Constipation

Beyond fruit juices, several other beverages and natural remedies can aid in relieving constipation. These alternatives offer additional options for those seeking varied approaches to digestive health.

Warm Lemon Water

A simple yet effective remedy involves mixing a squeeze of lemon juice into a glass of warm water. How does lemon water help with constipation? The citric acid in lemon juice can act as a stimulant to the digestive system, potentially increasing enzyme production and promoting bowel movements. Additionally, the warm water itself can help stimulate the digestive tract.

Coffee and Teas

Coffee, particularly when consumed in the morning, can stimulate the digestive system and promote bowel movements in some individuals. Various herbal teas, such as peppermint, ginger, or senna tea, may also have mild laxative effects and can be soothing to the digestive system.

Warm Fluids

In general, warm or hot fluids can help stimulate digestion and promote bowel movements. This effect is partly due to the temperature of the liquid, which can help relax the intestinal muscles and facilitate the passage of stool.

Beverages to Avoid

While addressing constipation, it’s advisable to avoid carbonated drinks. These beverages can potentially exacerbate bloating and gas, which may already be present with constipation. Opting for still, non-carbonated beverages is generally recommended until constipation resolves.

The Science Behind Juice Effectiveness in Constipation Relief

The efficacy of certain juices in relieving constipation is not merely anecdotal but has been subject to scientific scrutiny. A 2010 study explored the mechanisms by which juices can alleviate constipation symptoms. What did researchers discover about the effectiveness of juices for constipation relief?

The study found that juices containing sorbitol, a non-absorbable carbohydrate, were particularly effective in increasing the water content of stools and the frequency of bowel movements. This finding explains why juices high in sorbitol, such as prune, apple, and pear juices, are often recommended for constipation relief.

The mechanism of action involves sorbitol’s ability to draw water into the intestines through osmosis. This increased water content softens the stool, making it easier to pass. Additionally, the presence of sorbitol can stimulate intestinal motility, further promoting bowel movements.

Pasteurization and Constipation Relief

It’s worth noting that most commercially available juices are pasteurized, a process that involves heating the juice to kill harmful bacteria. Does pasteurization affect the laxative properties of juices? Generally, pasteurized juices retain their potential to help relieve constipation. The heat treatment does not significantly alter the sorbitol content or other compounds responsible for the laxative effect.

Considerations and Precautions When Using Juices for Constipation

While juices can be an effective and convenient home remedy for constipation, there are several factors to consider to ensure their safe and appropriate use.

Age Considerations

Juice can be a suitable remedy for constipation in most age groups, but there are important exceptions. Is juice appropriate for infants with constipation? Generally, juice is not recommended for infants, especially those under six months old. Constipation in infants typically begins after the introduction of solid foods, and treatment should be guided by a pediatrician.

For older children and adults, juices can be an effective and safe option when used in moderation. However, it’s important to consider the sugar content, especially for individuals with diabetes or those watching their calorie intake.

Medical Conditions and Dietary Restrictions

Individuals with certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions may need to exercise caution when using juices for constipation relief. For example, those with diabetes need to be mindful of the sugar content in fruit juices. Similarly, individuals on low-potassium diets due to kidney issues may need to limit their intake of certain juices high in potassium.

If you have any underlying health conditions or are following a restricted diet, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before using juices as a constipation remedy. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and potential interactions with medications.

Balancing Juice Intake with Overall Diet

While juices can be beneficial for constipation relief, they should be part of a balanced approach to digestive health. How can juices be incorporated into a broader strategy for managing constipation?

• Use juices as a complement to a fiber-rich diet
• Maintain adequate hydration with water and other fluids
• Incorporate regular physical activity
• Consider other natural remedies like probiotics or increased fiber intake

By integrating juices into a comprehensive approach to digestive health, individuals can maximize the benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks such as excessive sugar intake.

Long-Term Management of Constipation: Beyond Juices

While juices can provide effective short-term relief from constipation, it’s important to address the underlying causes for long-term management. What strategies can help prevent recurrent constipation?

1. Dietary Modifications: Increasing fiber intake through whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes can significantly improve bowel regularity.
2. Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake throughout the day is crucial for maintaining soft, easy-to-pass stools.
3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity stimulates intestinal muscles and can promote more frequent bowel movements.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Establishing a regular bathroom routine and not ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can help maintain regularity.
5. Stress Management: Chronic stress can affect digestive function, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques may be beneficial.

For individuals experiencing chronic constipation, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying medical conditions and provide personalized treatment plans that may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, or medications when necessary.

The Role of Probiotics in Digestive Health

In addition to juices and dietary changes, probiotics have gained attention for their potential role in managing constipation. How do probiotics contribute to digestive health and constipation relief?

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. They can help balance the intestinal microbiome, potentially improving digestion and regularity. Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains may increase stool frequency and improve stool consistency in individuals with constipation.

While more research is needed to fully understand the role of probiotics in constipation management, incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements may be a beneficial addition to a comprehensive approach to digestive health.

Innovative Approaches to Constipation Management

As research in digestive health advances, new approaches to managing constipation continue to emerge. What are some innovative strategies being explored for constipation relief?

• Gut-Brain Axis Modulation: Emerging research is exploring the connection between the gut and the brain, looking at how stress management techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy might influence digestive function.
• Personalized Nutrition: Advances in understanding individual gut microbiomes may lead to more personalized dietary recommendations for managing constipation.
• Targeted Prebiotics: Developing specific prebiotic fibers that selectively feed beneficial gut bacteria may offer new ways to promote digestive health and regularity.
• Herbal Formulations: Research into traditional herbal remedies is leading to the development of new, evidence-based herbal formulations for constipation relief.

These innovative approaches highlight the evolving understanding of digestive health and offer promising avenues for more effective constipation management in the future.

The Importance of a Holistic Approach

While juices and other specific remedies can be effective for constipation relief, it’s crucial to approach digestive health holistically. How can individuals develop a comprehensive strategy for maintaining digestive wellness?

A holistic approach to digestive health involves considering multiple factors:

• Balanced nutrition with adequate fiber and hydration
• Regular physical activity
• Stress management techniques
• Adequate sleep and rest
• Mindful eating practices
• Regular health check-ups to address any underlying issues

By addressing these various aspects of health and lifestyle, individuals can create a foundation for optimal digestive function and reduce the likelihood of chronic constipation.

In conclusion, while juices like prune, apple, and pear can offer effective relief from constipation, they should be viewed as part of a broader strategy for maintaining digestive health. By combining these natural remedies with lifestyle modifications, a balanced diet, and proper hydration, individuals can achieve better long-term management of constipation and overall digestive wellness.

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.

Foods for Constipation | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Featured Expert:

• Emma Slattery, RDN, LDN, CNSC, CSO

If you are experiencing constipation ― difficult or infrequent bowel movements ― what you eat can make a difference. Certain foods can help bring about relief, while others can make the problem worse.

Emma Slattery, a clinical dietitian at Johns Hopkins Medicine, provides insights on foods that help with constipation and foods to avoid when constipated.

Diet and Constipation

Constipation can be occasional or chronic, and causes range from a sedentary lifestyle to gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. But in almost every case of constipation, food is an important factor.

According to Slattery, fiber is a major component of foods that relieve constipation, and of poop itself. She notes that in addition to adding bulk to the stool, fiber and high-fiber recipes provide other digestive benefits:

• Fiber supports the microbiome: the healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive tract.
• Fiber also helps gut motility: the coordination of muscle contractions in the intestines that push food along the digestive process.

Foods High in Fiber

Slattery explains that there are two types of fiber found in food: soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Foods rich in one or both kinds can relieve both occasional and chronic constipation.

Insoluble Fiber

“Insoluble fiber is what we think of as roughage. This is the material from food that your body cannot break down in digestion,” she says. “It leaves the body pretty much as it goes in.”

Foods high in insoluble fiber include:

• Skins and seeds of fruits and vegetables
• Popcorn
• Leafy greens
• Nuts
• Dried fruit

Soluble Fiber

Soluble fiber, on the other hand, is a type of fiber that dissolves in water. “When dissolved in water in the digestive tract, soluble fiber forms a gel that adds bulk. The gel also acts as a natural stool softener, making bowel movements easier and more comfortable to pass,” Slattery says.

Soluble fiber can be found in:

• Whole grains
• Apples
• Bananas
• Cooked vegetables
• Oatmeal

Some of the recommended foods for constipation include both types of fiber. For example, potatoes and apples have soluble fiber inside, and insoluble fiber in the outer skin.

Eat more fiber to relieve constipation.

If you’re dealing with occasional constipation, upping your fiber intake for a few days to get back onto a more normal-for-you bowel movement schedule can be sufficient.

For chronic constipation, Slattery suggests consulting with a dietitian who can help you create a more fiber-rich, long-term eating plan. She recommends working up to 25–30 grams of fiber a day for women and 30–38 grams for men.

Increase fiber gradually.

But, she advises, when making dietary changes, easy does it.

“If you are used to eating a diet low in fiber, incorporating a lot of fiber all at once can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, cramping or bloating to actually worsen. The goal is to gradually add in more high-fiber foods so your digestive system has a chance to acclimate.”

High- Fiber Recipes

Are there foods that make you poop instantly?

Slattery says prunes and prune juice live up to their reputation as foods to help constipation due to a unique ingredient.

“In addition to fiber, prunes are rich in a naturally occurring sugar alcohol called sorbitol,” she explains. “Sorbitol molecules do not break down in digestion, and when they reach the colon, the body wants to get rid of them, and the reaction can result in a bowel movement.”

Slattery says apple juice also contains sorbitol, but in lower amounts. “For people who don’t like prunes or prune juice, apple juice can be an alternative.”

What else helps with constipation? Natural Laxatives, Water and More

In addition to increasing fiber, Slattery recommends some other strategies.

Sip a hot beverage.

People who want fast constipation relief can also try drinking hot beverages, especially caffeinated ones like coffee or regular tea. “The temperature of the liquid can speed up digestive motility, and caffeine stimulates the bowels as well,” Slattery says.

Use caution with natural laxatives.

Commercially available constipation supplements with psyllium husks or guar gum, when used occasionally and as directed, are safe for most people. But she recommends using caution when considering other herbal supplements, pills, powders or laxative “teas,” especially for long-term use.

“Some of the so-called ‘natural’ or ‘herbal’ constipation remedies are poorly researched and regulated,” she notes. “Some can cause diarrhea, cramping, bloating and even more serious digestive problems. ”

Drink more water for constipation.

She also stresses the importance of adequate hydration. Water is essential to helping fiber work its magic.

“The large intestine draws water out of the stool before it’s passed out of the body. So if you are dehydrated due to exercise, hot weather, a medical condition or just not drinking enough water, you can end up with hard, dried-out stool that is more difficult to pass.

“As you increase your dietary fiber, it’s important to increase your hydration at the same time,” she advises.

Can exercise help constipation?

“Absolutely yes,” says Slattery. “Physical activity is essential. Even if you do not feel like exercising because you are constipated and bloated, moving your body will help you move your bowels.”

Foods to Avoid When Constipated

High-fat foods ― those rich in oil, butter and grease ― can contribute to constipation.

If you are chronically constipated, overeating fried food, processed meats, commercially baked goods and other high-fat items may be responsible. Slattery cites cheese as a particular constipation culprit.

“Really high-fat foods slow down digestion,” she says. “Fats are tricky to digest, and take a long time for the body to break down. Also, most high-fat foods are low in fiber and delay motility.”

Q & A: Diet and Constipation

Q. If someone is constipated, does it matter when they eat?

A. “There is not much research around this. But, we know the process of eating stimulates the digestive system end to end, so at least theoretically, keeping a regular daily meal schedule could support regular bowel movements.”

Q. Are there particular diets that cause constipation?

A. “The keto diet, with its high levels of fat, can definitely cause constipation. If you are on a ketogenic diet for health reasons and become constipated, work with a dietitian or doctor to balance your dietary needs with some low-carb fiber sources, such as leafy greens.

“The BRAT diet ― bananas, rice, applesauce and toast ― is one we recommend for a range of digestive issues, and it can help with both constipation and diarrhea.

“Intermittent fasting can have variable effects on bowel movement regularity since there are so many different schedules to choose from.”

If you have questions about constipation and diet or any other aspect of nutrition and how it might affect your health, consult a clinical dietitian or a doctor.

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

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

Learn about 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.