Raisins are high in fiber and sorbitol, which could explain why some people find them helpful for constipation. Fiber adds bulk to stools, which can make them easier to pass, and sorbitol can help soften stool.
Sultanas are also high in fibre and contain tartaric acid, which has a laxative effect.
Most fruits will help ease constipation. Berries, peaches, apricots, plums, raisins, rhubarb, and prunes are just some of the fruits that may help.
Dried fruits, such as dates, figs, prunes, apricots, and raisins, are another great source of dietary fiber that acts as constipation relief. “Prunes, in particular, are great because they not only are high in fiber, they also contain sorbitol, which is a natural laxative,” Prather says.
They Help in Digestion
Consuming 4-5 black raisins daily is very good for your stomach. The best part about raisins is that they are rich in fiber that starts to swell in the presence of water, providing your stomach with a laxative effect, relieving you from constipation.
To attain quick relief from constipation, soak a handful of kishmish in a bowl of water overnight and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach. This not only acts as an effective natural remedy for constipation but also helps you stay healthy.
Raisins. Between prunes and raisins, Cording still recommends reaching for the prunes. Still, raisins are a good source of fiber, she says, and can definitely help relieve constipation. Sprinkle them on top of oats or yogurt for extra sweetness and texture.
Bananas. Bananas are part of the banana, rice, apple sauce, toast (BRAT) diet, which doctors previously recommended to treat diarrhea. This was due to these foods' ability to slow down bowel movements. As a result, these foods may not be a good option for people who have constipation.
Eating a lot of high-fat meats, dairy products and eggs, sweets, or processed foods may cause constipation. Not enough fluids. Water and other fluids help fiber work better, so not drinking enough liquids can contribute to harder stools that are more difficult to pass.
It's primarily in the form of fructose, a fruit sugar, making raisins an easily digestible source of quick energy.
Dairy Products
“On the opposite end of the spectrum, fermented dairy products such as yogurt or kefir can improve gut health and may decrease the likelihood of constipation,” she notes.
Peanut butter contains fiber, which may help people avoid constipation. However, people should try to choose brands that do not contain added salt, sugar, or fat. Including certain foods in the diet can help to keep bowel movements regular. These include vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
So it is important to keep a check on how many raisins you're consuming, particularly for those who are trying to reduce calorie intake," says Jagriti Barar, Executive Nutritionist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Mumbai (Malad). The typical serving size of raisins should not exceed 40-50 gm.
The high-fiber, low-water content of dried fruit can cause digestive issues, including gas and cramping during the night. The culprit is sorbitol, a sweetener found in dried fruits, including raisins and prunes, which can cause stomach bloating and flatulence, especially when eaten in larger quantities. Steer clear!
Side effects of having too many raisins
Dietary fibers can absorb excess fluid from our system and aid in treating diarrhea. Still, a high intake of them without drinking lots of water may cause dehydration, indigestion, and other stomach disorders.
Rightly known as the king of fruits, mangoes will improve your poop time for sure, thanks to its polyphenols. Snack up on mangoes every day in this season and it will work as a wonderful laxative. This delicious fruit will enhance stool frequency, shape and consistency.
MiraLAX ® is recommended more often than any other laxative.
Foods that help ease constipation
Consider adding some the following fibre-rich foods to your diet to help ease constipation: High fibre cereals such as: bran flakes, Weetabix, porridge, muesli and shredded wheat.
Kimball says any yogurt — not just those that advertise they're good for gastrointestinal health — can be a good source of probiotics that help relieve constipation. “I usually look for a low-sugar Greek yogurt,” she says.
“The BRAT diet ― bananas, rice, applesauce and toast ― is one we recommend for a range of digestive issues, and it can help with both constipation and diarrhea.
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.
Blueberries help to prevent constipation and maintain regularity for a healthful digestive tract because of their fiber content. Dietary fiber is also commonly recognized as an important factor in weight loss and weight management by functioning as a “bulking agent” in the digestive system.