Foods that Relieve Constipation

Today there seems to be so much advice given with regard to diet. Eat this, don’t eat that, don’t even think about smelling that! Many foods seem to lead to one result-constipation. If you have experienced this problem know all too well the discomfort and embarrassment this can cause. The number one question may be, which foods would bring relief.

There are quite a few foods that can relieve constipation. Lets take a moment to explore some of these. Two foods that are very high in fiber and thus useful to constipation sufferers are figs and dates. Because of their high mineral and fiber content, these fruits aid the digestion process and may relieve constipation within twenty four hours.

Grape lovers will be happy to note that one or two pounds of their favorite fruit daily can provide them with relief. The fact that grapes are full of vitamins, fiber and minerals may account for this effect. The skin of these beauties also contains an antioxidant called resveratol which only adds to the health benefits of this fruit.

The common, unassuming papaya is another of natures constipation fighters. High in fiber and easily digestible in its ripened state, the papaya is a very useful aid to digestion. The reasons for this are the protein-digesting enzymes papain and chymopapain which create and maintain a free flowing system. The high number of vitamins and antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta carotene only add to the health benefits of this delicious fruit. It can be added to delicious smoothies, used as an afternoon snack or as a part of a balanced breakfast.

The persimmon is another fruit that is high in Fiber (3.6 g per 100g) and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. It is also high in vitamins A, C and folate. These nutrients in persimmons make them very different from substances which only have a laxative effect. Instead of just relieving constipation, the persimmon gives relief and also replenishes the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function optimally. Adding this fruit will definitely enrich your diet.

Raspberries are added to this list because they are rich in vitamins A and C. It also contains high amounts of minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. These tasty little fruit can relieve constipation quickly and replenish your vitamin reserve.

Dried plums (prunes) are very effective in relieving constipation. Generally prunes are considered to be one of the best ways of relieving constipation. Forty percent of each prune is made up of insoluble fiber which assists the lower intestine in the elimination of waste. This wonderful little food outranks all fruits and vegetables in antioxidant content and contains eighteen powerful body boosting minerals and vitamins. Among these are vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin A, zinc, thiamine, sodium, selenium, riboflavin, potassium, phosphorous, pantothenic acid, niacin, manganese, magnesium, iron, copper and calcium. Bite for bite there is no other food that outranks this one. So eat up, enjoy these foods and have a free flowing colon.