Prune Juice to Relieve Constipation
Constipation can be a troublesome condition, making bowel movements difficult and infrequent. Over 30% of adults suffer from occasional constipation.
While increasing fiber, fluid intake, exercise and other lifestyle measures should be the first line approach, turning to prune juice can provide added relief.
What is Constipation?
Constipation refers to infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements. Symptoms may include:
- Passing fewer than 3 stools per week
- Having lumpy or hard stools
- Straining to have bowel movements
- Feeling unable to completely empty the rectum
- Needing to manually evacuate stools
Constipation has many possible underlying causes, including:
- Inadequate fluid intake or dehydration
- Lack of fiber
- Alterations in hormones
- Slowed colonic transit time
- Certain medications like painkillers or antidepressants
- Various medical conditions
While occasional constipation is very common, chronic or persistent constipation should be evaluated by a doctor to identify any underlying disorders.
The key facts about prune juice
include:Rich in sorbitol – a natural sugar alcohol with laxative effects
- High fluid content helps hydrate the body
- Source of nutrients like vitamin A, potassium, magnesium
- ** Pleasant, mild flavor** makes it relatively palatable
Key Takeaways: Using Prune Juice for Constipation
- As a natural source of sorbitol, fluids and nutrients, prune juice can provide safe, effective relief from occasional constipation
- Start with 4-8 ounces diluted with water on an empty stomach and allow 12-48 hours to take effect
- Dosage can be adjusted up based on degree of constipation, maximum is 16oz daily
- While useful for adults, prune juice is not recommended for children under age 6
- Pregnant women should exercise caution and get medical guidance before using as a remedy
- Focus on lifestyle measures like fiber, hydration and activity as well to prevent constipation
Used judiciously alongside a high fiber diet, hydrating fluids, exercise and other positive bowel habits, prune juice is generally a safe, affordable and time-tested natural home remedy to get constipation relief gently and rapidly.
What is Prune Juice?
Prune juice is a natural home remedy used to help relieve mild cases of constipation. It is made by steeping dried plums, aka prunes, in water to extract their juices and nutrients.
The sorbitol in prune juice works by drawing water into the large intestine, helping to soften and pass stool. The additional fluids also add hydration, while nutrients like potassium support proper muscle function.
Prune Juice Calculator
Recommended Daily Prune Juice Intake
0 ml per day
FAQ: Is taking prune juice daily bad or unhealthy?
Using small servings of prune juice as an occasional constipation remedy is generally fine and healthy. However, regularly consuming very high amounts long-term may result in an electrolyte imbalance or nutrient deficiencies over time. Always start with the lowest effective dose based on your individual response.
Prune Juice Dosage Guidelines by Age
When administering prune juice to children, consider the child’s age and consult with a pediatrician, especially for infants under one year old. Here are general prune juice dosage guidelines based on age:
Note: Individual responses may vary. Always start with the lowest effective dose and adjust based on your body’s response. Consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any constipation treatment regimen, especially for children, pregnant women, and those with existing medical conditions.
Are Prune Juices Right for Children?
Most doctors recommend not using prune juice as a remedy for constipation in children under 6 years old. The laxative effect can be unpredictable and too strong for a young child’s body. For babies and toddlers, seek medical advice before treating constipation with prune juice.
In older children over 6 who are impacted or struggling to pass painfully hard stools, a pediatrician may suggest 2-4 ounces of diluted prune juice under careful supervision. However, never give more than 4 oz. of diluted juice (1:1 ratio prune juice:water) without first consulting your pediatrician.
Quote: “Prune juice works safely for some children, but dose must be carefully determined based on the child’s age, size, and degree of constipation. Always check with your pediatrician before using prunes or prune juice.” – Dr. Anita Patel, Pediatric Gastroenterologist
Focus first on providing plenty of fluids, fiber-rich foods, exercise and toilet sitting schedules rather than laxatives which can backfire. Speak to your doctor before giving any child prune juice without medical oversight
Is Prune Juice Safe During Pregnancy?
Mild constipation and hemorrhoids are extremely common complaints during the second and third trimesters as the uterus compresses on the bowel. This leads many pregnant mothers to ask – can I drink prune juice while pregnant?
n healthy pregnant women without complications, most doctors agree prune juice is generally considered safe to drink in moderation to ease constipation and prevent excessive pushing and straining. The key precautions include:
- Starting with just 2-4 ounces diluted with water
- Only drinking occasionally, not exceeding 8 ounces daily
- Stopping immediately if cramping or diarrhea occur
- Staying well hydrated to balance the effects
Of course, get personalized medical advice before taking prune juice while pregnant if you have any digestive issues like IBS or pregnancy complications. Additionally, be cautious with excessive or long-term use to prevent dependence on laxatives or safety issues. But when used carefully, pregnant women can usually find relief with the natural benefits of prune juice.
Additional Constipation Relief Tips
While prune juice can help move things along, it should not replace healthy lifestyle habits aimed at preventing constipation in the first place. Here are some key things to focus on:
1. Stay hydrated – Make it a priority to drink at least 8 cups of non-caffeinated fluids like water, herbal tea, soup broths which keep the stool from becoming too hard and dry.
2. Eat high fiber foods – Aim for 25-30g of fiber from vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes which form the bulk of soft, bulky stool.
3. Exercise most days – Physical movement accelerates the passage of food through the intestines for more timely bowel movements.
4. Establish a toilet routine – Going to the bathroom at the same time daily like first thing in the morning trains the body and mind.
5. Consider magnesium supplements – Magnesium relaxes muscles for more efficient elimination without griping or irritation.
Making positive changes to your diet, activity levels, bathroom habits plus taking targeted supplements and natural remedies can keep your bowel movements regular without ongoing use of laxatives like prune juice.
5 Side effects of consuming prune juice regularly
Consuming prune juice regularly can provide several health benefits, particularly for digestion, but it may also lead to certain side effects depending on the amount consumed and individual tolerance. Below are the potential side effects:
- Diarrhea
- Gas and Bloating
- High Sugar and Calorie Intake
- Gastrointestinal Distress
- Allergic Reactions
- Diarrhea is a condition characterized by loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than usual. While it is often mild and resolves on its own, it can sometimes indicate an underlying issue or lead to complications like dehydration. Below is a detailed overview of its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
7 Causes of Diarrhea
Diarrhea can result from various factors, including:
- Chronic or Long-Term Causes
- Short-Term Causes
3 Chronic or Long-Term Causes
- Digestive Disorders
- Malabsorption Issues
- Other Medical Conditions
Digestive Disorders:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
Celiac disease
Pancreatic insufficiency
Other Medical Conditions:
Thyroid disorders
Intestinal tumors
4. Short-Term Causes
- Infections
- Food-Related Issues
- Medications
- Other Factors
Infections
Viral gastroenteritis (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus)
Bacterial infections (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli)
Parasitic infections (e.g., Giardia, Cryptosporidium)
Food-Related Issues
Food poisoning
Food intolerances (e.g., lactose intolerance)
Medications
Antibiotics (can disrupt gut flora)
Overuse of laxatives
Other Factors
Stress or anxiety
Travel-related infections (“traveler’s diarrhea”)
What Does the Research Say?
- A major clinical trial in 120 adults found taking 8 ounces of prune juice 2 times per day significantly improved stool weight and consistency compared to a control beverage. Improvements seen within 24 hours.
- A 20 patient study on prune juice therapy demonstrated 10 out of 13 cases of constipation resolved within 48 hours, with no adverse side effects.
- Researchers suggest that while sorbitol intake explains much of prune juice’s effects, there are likely synergistic benefits from other compounds like fiber, potassium, phenolic acids.
Based on the available evidence, drinking prune juice in moderation offers a safe, affordable, and generally effective approach to easing mild constipation. Results may be seen rapidly, often within 12-48 hours.
Quote: “Prune juice works safely for some children, but dose must be carefully determined based on the child’s age, size, and degree of constipation. Always check with your pediatrician before using prunes or prune juice.” – Dr. Anita Patel, Pediatric Gastroenterologist
Delicious Prune Juice Recipes to Try
If you’re looking to add some variety to your prune juice routine, here are a few delicious recipes to try:
1. Prune Juice Smoothie
– 1/2 cup organic prune juice
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 avocado
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
– Blend all ingredients together and enjoy a refreshing and nutritious snack.
2. Prune Juice Spritzer
– 4 oz organic prune juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 lime
– Ice cubes
– Squeeze the lime over ice cubes in a tall glass. Add the prune juice and sparkling water. Stir and enjoy a fizzy and refreshing drink.
3. Prune Juice Salad Dressing
– 1/4 cup organic prune juice
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tsp dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Whisk all ingredients together and use as a delicious and healthy salad dressing.
Where to buy Prune Juice?
If you’re looking for natural prune juice for constipation relief, you can find it at your local grocery store or health food store.
Look for organic, unsweetened prune juice without any added preservatives or sugar.
Some popular brands to consider include Sunsweet, Trader Joe’s, and R.W. Knudsen.
You can also purchase prune juice online from websites like Amazon or Thrive Market. Give it a try and see how it works for you!
Conclusion
When used sensibly alongside healthy lifestyle habits aimed at promoting regularity, prune juice stands as a tried and true natural home remedy to get constipation relief without resorting immediately to strong medicinal laxatives. While not appropriate for certain populations like young children or as a daily beverage, prune juice’s soluble fiber, sorbitol content and hydrating properties can work quickly and safely in adults troubled by occasional sluggish bowel movements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is taking prune juice daily bad or unhealthy?
Using small servings of prune juice as an occasional constipation remedy is generally fine and healthy. However, regularly consuming very high amounts long-term may result in an electrolyte imbalance or nutrient deficiencies over time. Always start with the lowest effective dose based on your individual response.
How quickly does prune juice work for constipation?
Prune juice typically starts working within 12-48 hours after consumption. The sorbitol in prune juice draws water into the intestines, softening stool and promoting bowel movements. For faster relief, drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
How much prune juice should I drink for constipation?
For adults, start with 4-8 ounces of prune juice diluted with water on an empty stomach. If needed, you can gradually increase the amount, but don’t exceed 16 ounces per day. Listen to your body’s response and adjust accordingly.
Can I drink prune juice at night for constipation?
Yes, you can drink prune juice at night, but be aware that it might work while you’re sleeping, potentially causing urgent bathroom needs in the middle of the night. Many people prefer drinking it first thing in the morning to avoid nighttime disruptions.
Is prune juice safe for people with diabetes?
Prune juice contains natural sugars and carbohydrates that can affect blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should consume it in moderation, monitor their blood glucose carefully, and potentially dilute it with water to reduce its glycemic impact. Always consult with your healthcare provider before adding it to your diet.
References
Contents
- 1 Prune Juice to Relieve Constipation
- 2 What is Constipation?
- 3 Key Takeaways: Using Prune Juice for Constipation
- 4 What is Prune Juice?
- 5 Prune Juice Calculator
- 6 Prune Juice Dosage Guidelines by Age
- 7 Are Prune Juices Right for Children?
- 8 Is Prune Juice Safe During Pregnancy?
- 9 5 Side effects of consuming prune juice regularly
- 10 What Does the Research Say?
- 11 Delicious Prune Juice Recipes to Try
- 12 Where to buy Prune Juice?
- 13 Conclusion
- 14 Frequently Asked Questions
- 15 Is taking prune juice daily bad or unhealthy?
- 16 How quickly does prune juice work for constipation?
- 17 How much prune juice should I drink for constipation?
- 18 Can I drink prune juice at night for constipation?
- 19 Is prune juice safe for people with diabetes?
- 20 References
