My Grandma's Natural Remedy for Constipation (Stewed Prunes) Recipe - Food.com (2024)

FAQs

What is the grandma's remedy for constipation? ›

"My sweet grandma used stewed prunes as a natural laxative, but my mom likes to eat them as a simple and healthy dessert because slow simmering softens and thickens dried plums into a sweet syrupy goodness. Healthier than taking Ex-lax."

How quickly prunes or prune juice will work depends on each individual. Some will see results in as little as a few hours. For some, it may take a day or so. Using this “go-slow” approach makes you more likely to improve symptoms without rapid urgency or even diarrhea.

In fact, dried prunes may be a preferred option for mild to moderate cases. This is due to their higher concentration of sorbitol and fiber compared to prune juice, which loses some fiber during the juicing process. Both options, however, are reliable in promoting bowel movements and alleviating constipation symptoms.

In 2022, researchers noted that people benefited from a daily dose of 54 g, or around 54 milliliters (ml) of prune juice over 8 weeks. The authors of a small, older study from 2007, concluded that drinking 125 ml or about half a cup, twice a day, was effective for managing mild constipation.

Home remedies include increasing your fiber intake or taking a laxative, using a suppository, or taking a stool softener. Trying out a squat position, doing light exercise, or performing a colonic massage may also help.

Natural laxatives include foods rich in magnesium, fiber, and probiotics, as well as drinks like water, prune juice, and coffee. Certain herbs, such as senna, ginger, peppermint, and aloe vera, can also help to keep your bowel movements more regular.

For some, consuming too many prunes or drinking a large quantity of prune juice may induce uncomfortable bloating or diarrhea. Start by eating three to five prunes or sipping on ½ cup of prune juice after dinner to see if this helps bring on a bowel movement the next morning.

Prunes have fiber as well as fructans and sorbitol, fermentable sugars that can have a laxative effect. Kiwi is a high-fiber, lower-sugar fruit that doesn't bring on the bloated tummy. Popcorn is an easy way to add more fiber into your day.

While the fiber may bulk up your stools, the sorbitol in the prune juice helps soften them, making them easier to pass.

The high concentrations of vitamin B6, calcium, and magnesium in prunes all help produce melatonin. These proteins are often lacking in a plant-based diet, so this is a great late-night snack if you're dairy-free.

Is popcorn good for constipation? ›

Popcorn is a whole grain that may help prevent constipation. As a source of fiber, popcorn may help support regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. Constipation is a common condition, affecting around 16% of adults in the United States and 33% of those aged 60 years or older.

Kapavarapu suggests this mixture: 1 ounce of prune juice, apple or pear in 1 ounce of water, one or two times a day.

The nurse identified that one of the approaches was to give patients with constipation a “co*cktail” of warm prune juice, lemon juice, and Senokot liquid to facilitate the first postoperative BM.

The soluble fiber in applesauce, in the form of pectin, can be helpful in treating digestive issues, such as diarrhea and constipation. It can help to neutralize the effects of irritable bowel syndrome. Pectin also acts as a prebiotic, which feeds good gut bacteria and promotes good digestive health.

Insoluble fiber is the most beneficial for softening stools. It does not dissolve in water and helps food pass more quickly from the stomach to the intestines. Wholewheat flour, nuts, beans, and vegetables, such as cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes all contain insoluble fiber.

Stimulants. It's better to try these if your constipation is severe and other drugs haven't worked. They cause your intestines to squeeze so things get moving. Two of the more common ones are bisacodyl (Correctol, Ducodyl, Dulcolax) and sennocides (Senexon, Senokot).