What foods can lead to constipation. How can you prevent constipation through diet. Which high-fiber foods help relieve constipation. Why do certain foods contribute to digestive issues.

Understanding Constipation: Causes and Contributing Factors

Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While various factors can contribute to this condition, diet plays a crucial role in both its development and prevention. Understanding the relationship between food and constipation is essential for maintaining optimal digestive health.

Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass. It can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Low-fiber diet
• Dehydration
• Lack of physical activity
• Certain medications
• Underlying health conditions
• Stress and anxiety

Is constipation always caused by a single food? In most healthy individuals, consuming a specific food in moderation is unlikely to directly cause constipation. However, people with digestive sensitivities or certain health conditions may find that particular foods can trigger or exacerbate constipation symptoms.

Low-Fiber Foods and Their Impact on Digestive Health

One of the primary dietary factors contributing to constipation is a lack of fiber in the diet. Fiber plays a crucial role in promoting regular bowel movements and maintaining digestive health. A diet low in fiber and high in processed foods can lead to constipation over time.

Which foods are typically low in fiber? Some examples include:

• Refined grains (white bread, white pasta, white rice)
• Processed meats
• Dairy products
• Fried foods
• Sugary snacks and desserts

How does a low-fiber diet contribute to constipation? When the diet lacks adequate fiber, the stool becomes harder and more difficult to pass through the intestines. This can lead to infrequent bowel movements and discomfort.

High FODMAP Foods: A Potential Trigger for Digestive Issues

For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive sensitivities, high FODMAP foods can be a potential trigger for constipation and other gastrointestinal symptoms. FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols, which are types of carbohydrates that can be difficult for some people to digest.

What are some examples of high FODMAP foods that may contribute to constipation?

• Garlic and onions
• Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
• Wheat and rye
• Certain fruits (apples, pears, watermelon)
• Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol)

How do high FODMAP foods affect digestion? These carbohydrates can ferment in the digestive system, leading to gas, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including constipation in some individuals.

The Banana Paradox: Friend or Foe for Constipation?

Bananas have a complex relationship with digestive health and constipation. Their effects can vary depending on their ripeness and an individual’s digestive sensitivity.

Can bananas cause constipation? Ripe bananas are high in FODMAPs and may slow down bowel movements in some people, potentially contributing to constipation. However, unripe bananas are low in FODMAPs and contain resistant starch, which can actually promote digestive health.

Why were bananas part of the BRAT diet? The BRAT (Banana, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) diet was once recommended for treating diarrhea due to these foods’ ability to firm up stools. However, this property may not be beneficial for those struggling with constipation.

The Role of Ripeness in Banana Digestion

How does banana ripeness affect digestion?

• Unripe bananas: Lower in FODMAPs, higher in resistant starch, may be better tolerated by those with IBS
• Ripe bananas: Higher in FODMAPs, may slow digestion and potentially contribute to constipation in sensitive individuals

Food Allergies and Intolerances: Hidden Culprits of Constipation

In some cases, chronic constipation may be a sign of an undiagnosed food allergy or intolerance. When the body reacts negatively to certain foods, it can disrupt normal digestive processes and lead to constipation.

How can food allergies contribute to constipation? When the body perceives a food as harmful, it can trigger an immune response that affects the digestive system. This may lead to inflammation, changes in gut motility, and alterations in the gut microbiome, all of which can contribute to constipation.

Which food allergies are commonly associated with constipation?

• Dairy (lactose intolerance)
• Gluten (celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity)
• Eggs
• Soy
• Tree nuts

Should you consider allergy testing for chronic constipation? If dietary changes and laxatives do not improve constipation symptoms, it may be worth discussing allergy testing with a healthcare provider to rule out potential food sensitivities.

Eggs and Constipation: Separating Fact from Fiction

There is a common belief that eggs can cause constipation, but the scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. Eggs are a low-fiber food, which means they don’t promote bowel movements, but they don’t necessarily cause constipation on their own.

Why might some people associate eggs with constipation?

• Low fiber content: Eggs don’t contribute to bulk in the stool
• Egg allergies: Some individuals may have difficulty digesting eggs due to allergies
• Dietary imbalance: Consuming too many eggs at the expense of fiber-rich foods

Are eggs beneficial for digestive health? Despite not being a source of fiber, eggs are rich in nutrients and can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. They contain proteins and healthy fats that can support overall digestive function when consumed in moderation.

High-Fiber Foods: Nature’s Remedy for Constipation

One of the most effective dietary strategies for preventing and alleviating constipation is increasing fiber intake. Fiber adds bulk to the stool, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Which high-fiber foods can help relieve constipation?

• Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, spinach, Brussels sprouts
• Fruits: Apples, pears, berries, oranges, avocados
• Whole grains: Oats, quinoa, brown rice, whole wheat bread
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds

How much fiber should you consume daily? The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25-30 grams for adults. However, it’s important to increase fiber intake gradually to avoid digestive discomfort and drink plenty of water to help the fiber work effectively.

The Two Types of Fiber: Soluble and Insoluble

Understanding the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber can help you make informed dietary choices:

• Soluble fiber: Dissolves in water, forms a gel-like substance, and can help soften stools. Found in oats, barley, fruits, and legumes.
• Insoluble fiber: Does not dissolve in water, adds bulk to stools, and helps food pass more quickly through the digestive system. Found in whole grains, nuts, and many vegetables.

Both types of fiber are important for maintaining digestive health and preventing constipation.

Hydration: The Often Overlooked Factor in Constipation Prevention

While much attention is given to the role of food in constipation, the importance of proper hydration cannot be overstated. Adequate fluid intake is crucial for maintaining soft, easy-to-pass stools and preventing constipation.

How does hydration affect bowel movements? Water helps soften the stool and promotes regular bowel movements. When the body is dehydrated, it absorbs more water from the colon, leading to harder, more difficult-to-pass stools.

What are the best beverages for preventing constipation?

• Water: The best and most essential fluid for hydration
• Herbal teas: Can provide additional benefits and variety
• Prune juice: Contains natural laxative properties
• Warm liquids: Can stimulate bowel movements in some people

How much fluid should you consume daily? While individual needs vary, a general guideline is to drink at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day. This may need to be increased in hot weather or during physical activity.

The Role of Electrolytes in Digestive Health

Electrolytes play a crucial role in maintaining proper fluid balance and supporting digestive function. Key electrolytes include:

• Sodium
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Calcium

Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help ensure adequate electrolyte intake, supporting overall digestive health and hydration.

Lifestyle Factors That Influence Constipation

While diet plays a significant role in constipation, other lifestyle factors can also contribute to or alleviate this condition. Understanding and addressing these factors can complement dietary changes in managing constipation.

Which lifestyle factors can impact constipation?

• Physical activity: Regular exercise can stimulate bowel movements
• Stress management: Chronic stress can disrupt digestive function
• Sleep habits: Poor sleep quality may affect gut motility
• Bathroom habits: Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can lead to constipation
• Medications: Certain drugs can cause constipation as a side effect

How can you incorporate these factors into a constipation prevention plan? Aim for regular physical activity, practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga, prioritize good sleep hygiene, and establish a consistent bathroom routine. If medications are causing constipation, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider.

The Gut-Brain Connection

The relationship between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in digestive health. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact gut function, potentially leading to constipation or other digestive issues.

How can you support the gut-brain connection?

• Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Prioritize sleep and establish a consistent sleep schedule
• Consider probiotic supplements or fermented foods to support gut health

When to Seek Medical Advice for Constipation

While occasional constipation is common and often resolves with dietary and lifestyle changes, persistent or severe constipation may require medical attention. It’s important to recognize when to consult a healthcare professional.

What are the signs that constipation requires medical attention?

• Constipation lasting more than three weeks despite lifestyle changes
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent changes in bowel habits
• Constipation alternating with diarrhea

What can you expect during a medical consultation for constipation? A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination, ask about your medical history and symptoms, and potentially order tests such as blood work or imaging studies to rule out underlying conditions.

Potential Underlying Conditions

Chronic constipation can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying health condition. Some conditions that may cause persistent constipation include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Colon cancer (in rare cases)

Identifying and addressing these underlying conditions is crucial for effective management of chronic constipation.

Developing a Personalized Constipation Prevention Plan

Given the diverse factors that can contribute to constipation, developing a personalized prevention plan is often the most effective approach. This plan should take into account individual dietary needs, lifestyle factors, and any underlying health conditions.

How can you create an effective constipation prevention plan?

1. Assess your current diet and identify areas for improvement
2. Gradually increase fiber intake through whole foods
3. Ensure adequate hydration throughout the day
4. Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine
5. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or counseling if needed
6. Establish a consistent bathroom routine
7. Consider keeping a food and symptom diary to identify trigger foods

Is a personalized approach necessary for everyone? While general guidelines can benefit most people, those with chronic constipation, digestive sensitivities, or underlying health conditions may require a more tailored approach. Consulting with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider can help develop a plan that addresses individual needs and concerns.

The Role of Probiotics in Digestive Health

Probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut health, may play a role in preventing and managing constipation. These microorganisms can help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora, potentially improving digestive function and regularity.

How can you incorporate probiotics into your diet?

• Consume fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi
• Consider probiotic supplements (consult with a healthcare provider for recommendations)
• Eat prebiotic-rich foods to support probiotic growth (e.g., garlic, onions, bananas, asparagus)

While more research is needed to fully understand the role of probiotics in constipation prevention, many people find that including probiotic-rich foods in their diet supports overall digestive health.

List of foods that can cause constipation and how to prevent it

Various factors can contribute to constipation, but low fiber foods, eggs, sweeteners, allergens, and other items may worsen it. Meanwhile, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help relieve or prevent it.

Diet, lifestyle, stress, and underlying health conditions can all contribute to constipation.

In most healthy people, a single serving of a specific food is unlikely to cause constipation. However, people with digestive or other health conditions may find that eating certain foods can trigger or worsen constipation.

This article will look at which foods can cause or worsen constipation and some other potential causes.

In most healthy people, a single, specific food will not directly cause constipation. However, certain diets can contribute to it. People with chronic constipation may also find that specific foods impact their symptoms.

Occasional constipation is common, and most people will experience it at some point in life. However, 2–27% of the population experience chronic constipation, which is persistent.

According to the National Health Service (NHS), people are more likely to experience constipation if they:

• are pregnant
• frequently use laxatives
• eat a diet low in fiber
• do not drink enough fluids
• experience stress, anxiety, or depression
• are usually inactive

There are also many digestive conditions that can cause constipation, such as:

• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
• inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• diverticulosis

Also, some medications and supplements — including iron supplements, antacids, and opioids — can cause constipation as a side effect.

The following sections will discuss some foods that may cause or worsen constipation.

Low fiber foods

Eating a diet that does not contain much fiber may contribute to constipation. A person may not be getting enough fiber if they eat a lot of meat, dairy products, and refined carbohydrates but do not eat many vegetables, fruits, or whole grains.

In this case, specific foods are not the cause of the constipation. Instead, it is an imbalance between different food groups. Eating more fiber and fewer low fiber foods may help.

It is worth noting that some people with digestive conditions or IBD find that eating high fiber foods can make their symptoms worse. If increasing fiber does not help, it may be worth talking with a doctor.

High FODMAP foods

People with IBS and some other digestive conditions may find that foods high in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) worsen their symptoms.

This group of carbohydrates can ferment in the digestive system, causing symptoms such as gas, constipation, or diarrhea. Some examples of high FODMAP foods include:

• garlic, onions, and shallots
• legumes, such as beans, chickpeas, and soybeans
• grains, such as wheat, barley, and rye
• sweeteners, such as xylitol, mannitol, and sorbitol
• specific fruits, such as apples, blackberries, and watermelon

People whose bodies have difficulty digesting these foods may feel better by eating a low FODMAP diet, which involves avoiding high FODMAP foods for a set period of time.

Learn more about the low FODMAP diet here.

Bananas

Bananas are part of the banana, rice, apple sauce, toast (BRAT) diet, which doctors previously recommended to treat diarrhea. This was due to these foods’ ability to slow down bowel movements. As a result, these foods may not be a good option for people who have constipation.

Ripe bananas are also high FODMAP, which may mean that people with IBS have to avoid them. Unripe bananas are low FODMAP and may be easier for those with IBS to tolerate.

Allergens

In some people, chronic constipation may signal a food allergy.

A 2011 study into constipation in children found that when the participants eliminated food allergens from their diet, their constipation improved. This was true for 28 out of 32 children. However, this was a small study with a low number of participants.

If a person’s body does not respond to taking laxatives or making other dietary changes, the person may wish to ask a doctor for allergy testing.

Eggs

Some people believe that eggs can cause constipation. However, there is not much scientific evidence that supports this. They are a low fiber food, though, so eating a lot of them may contribute to constipation.

Egg allergies are also among the most common food allergies, which could explain why some people’s bodies have difficulty digesting them.

For many people, eating more high fiber foods can help ease constipation. These foods include:

• most vegetables, including carrots, peas, broccoli, and okra
• fruits, including apples, pears, berries, avocados, and oranges
• whole grains, such as whole oats, buckwheat, and millet
• brown bread, pasta, and rice

The Institute of Medicine recommend consuming 19–38 grams of fiber per day, depending on age, sex, and stage of life. For example, pregnant people and older adults may need more fiber than others to prevent constipation.

When increasing fiber intake, it is also important to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration. Also, it is best to increase fiber intake slowly to prevent a constipating effect.

Some specific foods that may help with constipation include:

• Kiwi fruit: According to a 2014 article that looked at foods that help with constipation, green kiwi fruit increased the frequency and softness of bowel movements.
• Prunes: The 2014 study also notes that prunes can have a laxative effect. However, they are high FODMAP, which may make them unsuitable for people with IBS.
• Fruit juices: Unsweetened fruit juice may be especially helpful for young children, whose digestive systems are not yet matured. Apple, pear, or prune juices can be a source of fiber and help increase fluid intake.

If eating more fiber does not help or makes constipation worse, speak with a doctor.

Other aspects of a person’s lifestyle — such as their exercise routine, bathroom habits, and mental health — can also influence digestion.

To prevent or relieve constipation, they may wish to try:

• exercising regularly
• using the bathroom as soon as the need strikes
• minimizing the use of laxatives and enemas
• seeking help with managing chronic health conditions, such as diabetes
• seeking support for mental health conditions, such as anxiety
• learning stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises
• speaking with a doctor about any medications that could be causing constipation

Constipation is common, and most people experience it occasionally — particularly if their usual routine or diet has recently changed.

However, chronic constipation means that the digestive system is not functioning as it should. People with frequent or reoccurring constipation may have a health condition.

People should speak with a doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms:

• severe constipation that does not respond to over-the-counter laxatives or dietary changes
• constipation that keeps coming back
• abdominal pain
• blood in the stool
• constipation alongside additional symptoms, such as vomiting

What causes constipation can vary from person to person. For some, eating a diet low in fiber can cause or worsen constipation. In this case, eating more fruits and vegetables and staying hydrated may help.

For others, food allergies and intolerances can cause or worsen constipation. Finding the cause of constipation can help these people determine which foods they should avoid.

Do Apples Cause Constipation – Is Apple Good for Constipation

Are you tired of constipation? Are you searching for remedies to treat constipation? It is not easy to eat and stay healthy while being constipated. Health specialists suggest to eat a lot of fruits to prevent and treat constipation. Now the question is do apples cause constipation or do they prevent constipation?

Constipation is a chronic health problem. Constipation is a condition in which bowel movements are painful or infrequent. According to National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases:

“Constipation is defined as the passage of small amounts of hard, dry stool less than three times per week during bowel movements. ”

Table of Content

What are the Causes of Constipation?

Here are the common causes of constipation;

• Being dehydrated
• Consuming a low-fiber diet
• Getting little or no physical activity
• Taking certain medications, such as sedatives, opioid pain relievers, some antidepressants, or blood pressure medications
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Ignoring the need for a bowel movement.
• Travel, pregnancy, and old age are all examples of changes in habits or lifestyle.
• Problems with bowel function

Read Also; How to get rid of Constipation Instantly?

Do Apples Cause Constipation?

While laxatives, stool softeners, and fiber supplements are common constipation treatments, incorporating a few regularity-boosting foods into your diet can be a safe and effective alternative.

Apple is one of those fruits that are used to prevent constipation. Apples are good for constipation as their peel has a lot of fiber. According to Food Data Central, apples are high in fiber, with one small apple (149 grams) providing 3.6 grams. Fiber passes through your intestines undigested, promoting stool formation and regular bowel movements.

Apples are high in both soluble and insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber accounts for 64% of the fruit, while soluble fiber accounts for 36%.

Apples also contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber known for its laxative properties. In one study, 80 people with constipation were given pectin supplements. Pectin sped up colon transit time, reduced constipation symptoms, and even improved digestive health by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut after 4 weeks.

Did you know that apples can aid in the treatment of diarrhea? Apples can help with constipation as well as diarrhea. Soluble fiber is the type that forms a gel-like consistency in the stools and slows digestion. If you have diarrhea, you should consume the fruit’s pulp without the skin. That doesn’t mean apples cause constipation, rather it can keep your digestive system healthy.

The insoluble fiber in apples, on the other hand, is found in the apple skin. It is the one that aids in the formation of stools, eases bowel movements, and relieves constipation. It means that it is a single fruit with two benefits.

Apples can be used as a healthy topping for foods such as yoghurt, salads, and oatmeal, or they can be eaten on their own as a portable and nutritious snack.

Other Health Benefits of Apples:

• Apples’ high fiber content may also help with weight loss. It is high in fiber and water, both of which make the fruit filling in nature. Eating one whole fruit in between meals (rather than before or after) can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce your overall calorie intake, assisting with weight loss.
• Pectin is another type of fiber found in apples that acts as a prebiotic. It feeds beneficial bacteria to the gut and can help improve gut health.
• Apples may be beneficial to heart health. Apples’ soluble fiber can help lower blood cholesterol levels.
• Apples also contain polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties and may help lower blood pressure.

Which Fruits are Good for Constipation?

Constipation is a common problem that affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. Though medications and supplements can help, most people can achieve regularity with a high fiber, healthy diet and a few regularity-boosting foods. Here are some other fruits that are good for managing constipation;

• Prunes
• Banana
• Avocado
• Peach
• Figs
• Pear
• Kiwi

Conclusion:

It’s a common saying, apple a day, keeps the doctor away. And we know that, constipation is the mother of all diseases. So, if you eat apple, it will keep you healthy by preventing and treating constipation.

It contains soluble and insoluble fiber. That makes this miraculous fruit beneficial for both constipation and diarrhea.

Make an appointment right away to have all of your questions answered. You can make an online appointment with the best doctor for constipation treatment by calling the Marham. 

 FAQs

Is apple good for constipation?

Yes, apple has high fiber content that is helpful in treating constipation. The pectin present in apples acts as laxative. Pectin speed up colon transit time, reduce constipation symptoms, and even improve digestive health by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Is it OK to eat an apple every day?

It is good to have apple every day. It is unlikely that eating an apple every day will harm your health. However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing, and eating multiple apples per day may result in bloating and stomachache.

how and in what form is it better to take?

by Inna KorneichukPosted on April 16, 2018 June 3, 2019

Apples help against constipation only when present in the diet daily. By eating up to two fruits a day, you can improve intestinal patency and regulate stools, forgetting about difficulties in emptying. However, apples do not always have a positive effect on the intestines and often, on the contrary, cause constipation. Why does this happen and under what constipation should this fruit be included in the diet, and under which not?

What are the benefits of apples for the intestines

Intestinal dysfunction is defined simply – emptying occurs less than once a day, and the process of defecation is complicated due to changes in the structure of feces. If the difficulties with the stool are not associated with any disease, then gastroenterologists recommend adjusting the diet, be sure to include more vegetables, fruits and bran.

Speaking specifically about apples, they are considered to be the healthiest fruits that should be included in any diet. These fruits are rich in composition, the components of which are well digested and absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, namely:

• trace elements and minerals;
• unsaturated fatty acids;
• organic acids;
• vegetable fibers;
• vitamin complex.

Dietary fibers from apples have a mild laxative effect, irritating the intestinal walls and softening the accumulated feces. But it is better with insufficient bowel movements to eat baked and dried fruits, since often, on the contrary, fresh apples cause constipation.

Are apples effective for constipation

Do apples help with constipation caused by malnutrition and lack of fluid in the body? Yes. To do this, you need to eat juicy semi-sweet fruits. They regulate the work of the intestines, providing the missing moisture and irritatingly acting on its muscles.

These fruits, due to certain substances in the composition, have the following mechanism of action:

• sorbitol – attracts water to the intestines, softening the stool, facilitating their exit;
• pectin – has a sorbing property, due to which it activates peristalsis and removes feces along with accumulated toxins;
• Cellulose, a polysaccharide that provides an increase in the volume of intestinal contents, has a laxative effect.

To help with constipation, apples should be consumed daily and preferably in the afternoon. At the same time, it is important not to abuse this product and be sure that there are no contraindications: gastritis, stomach ulcers, etc. Is it possible to eat apples with constipation – it depends on the type of constipation and the presence of individual characteristics of the body.

We advise you to read the article – “Bran for constipation”.

How to use apples for constipation

Apples help with constipation if used correctly. Fresh fruits are distinguished by a high content of vitamins and minerals, but in case of problematic stools, they are recommended to be replaced with dried or baked ones.

This is explained by the fact that raw apples can cause fermentation in the intestines, accompanied by bloating and flatulence.

Baked apples are especially useful for constipation. With this heat treatment, they do not lose their nutrients, but get rid of excess water and sugar. This ensures saturation with fiber and other necessary elements, preventing a possible fermentation process.

Eating one baked apple a day can:

• minimize gas formation;
• relieve intestinal discomfort due to spasms;
• normalize stool;
• prevent anal fissures and hemorrhoids.

In the absence of an undesirable reaction to apples, the juice of these fruits helps to solve the problem with defecation. In order for emptying to occur daily, it is necessary to drink a glass of freshly squeezed juice shortly before bedtime and always on an empty stomach. In case of chronic constipation, it is recommended to dilute it with plum juice.

Can apples cause constipation

Can apples cause constipation and why? The development of constipation from this delicacy is quite common and there are several reasons for this:

1. Oversaturation of the diet with apples. A large number of eaten apples disrupts digestion, provoking fermentation in the intestines.
2. High sugar content. Sweet varieties of apples are more difficult to digest, and their long stay in the digestive tract causes a fermentation process. Too sweet fruits are not recommended for use in heart and vascular diseases.
3. Gastric ulcer and gastritis. With these ailments, apples should be included in the diet with caution. They can cause indigestion and flatulence.
4. Treatment of fruits with harmful substances. Often, in order to extend the shelf life, apples are treated with various chemicals, which, if they enter the gastrointestinal tract, provoke its dysfunction. Therefore, it is so important to thoroughly wash purchased apples before eating.

It is also not recommended to eat green apples for constipation , because due to the high content of acid, they not only do not restore the stool, but also exacerbate existing problems with the intestines.

We advise you to read the article – “Fruits for constipation”.

Posted in Nutrition for constipation

Posted by Inna Korneichuk

Hello! I am glad to welcome you to the website Zapora.net, which is dedicated to solving problems with the gastrointestinal tract. I am the author of articles on the site, as well as a practicing gastroenterologist with 12 years of experience. See all posts from Inna Korneichuk

An apple a day will put doctors out of work The result of the experiment showed that regular consumption of apples (and pears, by the way) prevents asthma and helps cure chronic bronchitis. Scientists explain this by the fact that apples and pears contain a large amount of flavonoids, which alleviate the course of chronic diseases.

Doctors recommend eating apples to prevent lung cancer. Scientists believe that the flavonoids contained in them reduce the risk of lung cancer by 50%. In addition, apples help smokers avoid many chronic diseases due to antioxidants – they protect the lungs from the effects of tobacco smoke.

For blood vessels

Apples reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, preventing clogging of blood vessels. The pectin they contain binds cholesterol and removes it from the body. Eating two apples a day lowers cholesterol levels by 16%. In addition, apples contain vitamin C, which strengthens blood vessels and reduces their permeability.

For the intestines

The fiber contained in the apple improves digestion and eliminates constipation. Pectin, on the contrary, has an antidiarrheal effect. Swelling in the intestines, it not only fixes the stool, but also neutralizes toxic substances in food and chemical poisoning, so pureed apples have long been used as a remedy for diarrhea. And the phytoncides contained in apples are able to kill pathogens of dysentery. In addition, pectin is able to bind even heavy metals, such as lead and arsenic. And organic acids (malic, tartaric, citric) in combination with pectins and tannins reduce putrefactive and fermentation processes in the intestines.

For the thyroid gland

Everything in an apple is useful – from the peel to the seeds. The seeds contain iodine, and the seeds of only two apples contain its daily dose. True, the iodine content in them depends on the iodine content in the soil. If the soil in the place where fruits grow is poor in iodine, then there will not be much of it in the seeds. Some doctors recommend collecting apple seeds when harvesting, drying and consuming throughout the year. Some even advise grinding dried seeds into flour, but this is wrong, since iodine sublimes (evaporates, bypassing the liquid phase) under the influence of light, and very quickly it will not remain in such flour at all.

Skin

Grated apples have long been used for burns. The tannins contained in this fruit help relieve inflammation. Pureed apples, mixed with butter in a ratio of 1: 1, can be used to treat cracks in the lips, hands and nipples. Apple mask is suitable for all types of skin, it softens the skin, restores, improves its elasticity and nourishes with vitamins.

For teeth

Dentists recommend eating apples more often for good reason. This process is a good natural load for the teeth. In addition, apples can be used to brush your teeth. To get rid of plaque or after eating during the day, it is enough to eat just one apple. They are also useful for the gums – during chewing, the gums are massaged, this strengthens them and improves blood circulation. And the tannins contained in apples reduce bleeding gums. However, after drinking fresh apple juice, you should rinse your mouth or brush your teeth – malic acid is not very good for tooth enamel.

For blood

Sour green apples are often used to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia – they contain more iron than red ones. And vitamin C, also found in apples, helps with the absorption of iron. The Antonovka variety is especially suitable for these purposes.

For youth

Apple peel contains a large amount of quercetin. It is an antioxidant that binds free radicals, fights aging, strengthens cell walls and has anti-inflammatory effects. Quercetin is believed to boost the immune system and even protect against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

Slimming

For those who want to lose weight, there are many apple diets and apple fasting days. But do not trust them too much – diets must be followed for life, and the weight lost in 7-14 days of a fast-acting diet will return just as quickly. It is advisable to do unloading apple days no more than once a month and not for weight loss, but to consolidate the previously achieved result.

Useful all year round?

No one doubts that fresh apples are healthy. But recycled ones lose some of their properties. To preserve vitamins, they must be dried at a temperature not exceeding 85ºС for 4-6 hours. Then these dried fruits will be almost as useful as fresh fruits. There are few vitamins in baked apples, but they have a slight laxative and diuretic effect. In addition, unlike fresh, baked apples have more pronounced anti-inflammatory properties. Heat-treated apple juice, just like the apples themselves, improves bowel function and stimulates peristalsis.

But even if the apples are not processed, but stored fresh, in a dark cool place, wrapping each apple in a piece of paper, they will not retain their useful properties for long. By spring, only fiber and pectins will remain in them.

How to choose an apple

Apples differ not only in color and taste, but also in properties and uses. For example, sour doctors recommend for gastritis with low acidity, constipation, anemia and to stimulate appetite.