Citrus Fruit for Constipation - Chronic and Occasional Relief

Citrus fruit is in season and in addition to being delicious and sweet, it is also a great remedy for variety of health issues including constipation. Chronic illnesses of different kinds have been known to respond to Vitamin C, which is abundant in the citrus fruit. They are also full of enzymes, fiber, and water, which all play a role in digestion and constipation - chronic or occasional varieties.

Vitamin C & Constipation – Chronic Deficiency

This precious vitamin is crucial to our survival but it is also known for its laxative effects. How does lacking this vitamin contribute to constipation? Chronic Vitamin C deficiency is common in diets that are not rich in fresh fruits (like citrus fruit) and vegetables. It is important because it helps a fiber known as chitosan bind with the fat in food to make for a smoother, bulkier, and more comfortable stools.

Enzymes

Have you noticed that a lot of natural cleaners contain Citrus fruit? That's because they are full of powerful enzymes that are crucial to relief of constipation. Chronic digestive issues usually start with the lack of enzymes produced in the body or consumed through raw fruits and vegetables. These enzymes are the little soldiers that break down the food you consume so that your body can absorb it. It is particularly important to get enzymes from whole food sources because many Americans are deficient in key minerals like magnesium, that allow for enzyme production within the body.

Fiber and Water

We have all heard that fiber and water are crucial to digestion and treatment of constipation. Chronic dehydration can lead to hard stools which are not easy to pass. Further, fiber and water come together to bulk up and soften stool for constipation relief. Citrus fruit is rich in both water and fiber, so adding citrus to your diet will really be a proactive step in your constipation treatment plan.

Overall, citrus fruit offers a variety of benefits in the areas of hydration, nutrients and digestion that can help to end chronic constipation. However, there are other crucial factors like magnesium supplementation, beneficial bacteria supplementation, and prebiotic fiber that all help to complete a balanced constipation treatment plan. Still, adding citrus to the diet is a crucial step in the right direction.