AI Overview
Prunes make you poop because they contain two key ingredients: sorbitol and fiber. Sorbitol is a natural sugar alcohol that draws water into the intestines, softening stool and making it easier to pass. The fiber in prunes adds bulk to stool and helps stimulate colon contractions, which helps move things along.
How prunes work
- Sorbitol: Prunes are rich in sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that is poorly absorbed by the body. It acts as a natural laxative by pulling water into the large intestine, which helps to soften and move stool.
- Fiber: Prunes contain both soluble and insoluble fiber.
- Insoluble fiber: adds bulk to stool, which can help with bowel regularity.
- The combination of fiber and sorbitol: can stimulate contractions in the colon to move stool through the digestive system more quickly.
Important considerations
- Start slowly: If you're not used to a fiber-rich diet, start with a few prunes and increase gradually to avoid gas and bloating.
- Drink water: It's crucial to drink plenty of water when increasing your fiber intake. Without enough water, the fiber can actually worsen constipation.
- Listen to your body: Eating too many prunes can lead to gas, bloating, or diarrhea. It may be best to consume a moderate amount, such as three to four prunes, to start.
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Is prune juice as effeciive as prunes for constipation?
AI Overview
Prunes are often better than prune juice because they contain more fiber, which is key for relieving constipation. However, both prunes and prune juice are effective due to their natural laxative compounds like sorbitol.
JL NOTE: This may have been from the California Prune Board but I'm not sure. .
Similar information at:
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. Foods for Constipation.
- Mayo Clinic. Constipation: Diagnosis and Treatment.
- Kaiser Permanente. Are Prunes Good for Constipation?.
