What is the best fiber constipation remedy?


One of the causes of chronic constipation is lack of fiber in our diets. We have heard this statement many times from our doctor but what kinds of fiber are most effective as a constipation remedy. Some fruits and grains have been shown to have natural laxative effects.


Kiwi


Kiwi is a sweet and tangy fruit that contains 95% of the daily value of Vitamin C. At only 46 calories per regular sized fruit, kiwi also contains about 10% of the daily value of fiber. Laxative effects of kiwi have been shown in numerous studies around the world:


- A Chinese study showed that consuming 2 kiwi fruit a day for 4 weeks significantly improved the symptoms of chronic constipation and decreased the laxative use for the subjects.
- A study of constipated adults aged over 60, showed that consumption of one kiwi per 30kg of body weight per day for 3 weeks increased stool size and improved stool texture.


If you are otherwise healthy and just need a natural constipation remedy, kiwifruit may be worth trying. Try to pick very ripe kiwis and consume one or two (depending on size) every morning and evening. Keep in mind that it may take some time for the kiwifruit to provide constipation relief (3 – 4 weeks as noted in the studies above).


Dried Apricots


Apricots contain a lot of Vitamin C and A and a good amount of fiber which is a great combination for a natural constipation remedy. Dried apricots contain more than double the fiber of prunes. Consuming 6 – 10 dried apricot fruits a day may provide an effective constipation treatment. With any dried fruit, remember to drink lots of water during and right after consumption. This will ensure that the fruit works properly and doesn't further clog you up.


Chickpeas


Chickpeas are one of the earliest cultivated vegetables that come from the Middle East. The largest producer of chickpeas is India and many Indian dishes contain them. Chickpeas are a great source of protein but they also contain a great amount of fiber. A cup of chickpeas contains 10 times more fiber than a serving size of prunes. They can be eaten boiled but they also make a great afternoon snack dried.


Sauerkraut


Sauerkraut is full of fiber with just one cup of the fermented vegetable containing 4 grams of fiber, which can bring constipation relief. In addition to its fibrous benefits, 1 cup of sauerkraut also contains 35% of the daily Vitamin C your body needs and is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Finally, it contains potent probiotics that work as constipation remedies by fueling the cells of your colon.


Glucomannan Supplement


Glucomannan is a great fiber for constipation relief. It is derived from the root of Japanese konjac root and has been shown in studies to increase stool bulk and also improve the intestine environment thus relieving constipation. Fiber derived from glucomannan has been shown to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon for constipation help.


StayRegular is a constipation remedy that contains glucomannan that helps gently move the contents of your colon. It uses natural, non-stimulant ingredients to provide regular bowel movements. It relieves constipation in four ways: provides fiber for bulk, draws water into your system to hydrate the colon, rebalances your colonic bacteria, and provides the nutrients needed for healthy muscle contractions.