Constipation may be a difficult and unpleasant issue, and many people resort to prune juice as a natural cure. But how much prune juice should you consume to observe results? It’s a popular question, yet answering it may be tricky. That is why we have compiled the definitive guide on prune juice for constipation. We’ll discuss prune juice’s benefits, how it relieves constipation, and how much to drink. Whether you’ve suffered chronic constipation or just want a natural approach to keeping regular, this book will explain prune juice and its impact on your digestive tract. Let’s explore prune juice and constipation!
Table of Contents
Prunus juice: Does it work?
Prune juice is often cited as a remedy for constipation, and some research backs up this assertion. 54 grams (g) of prune juice or a placebo were given daily to 84 patients with persistent constipation in a 2022 trial.
The prune juice group had softer stools and more frequent bowel motions than the other group after 8 weeks. They did not have diarrhea, gas, or loose, watery stools as side effects. According to the researchers, the juice’s sorbitol, pectin, and polyphenol content had a significant role in the efficacy of prune juice as a therapy.
Prunes contain a lot of fiber, including:
- Hemietalic acid (3 g per 100 g)
- Cellulose(0.9 g per 100 g)
- Pectin(2.1 g per 100 g)
Pectin is one form of fiber that the gut bacteria may fast digest, and this may have prebiotic effects. Cellulose doesn’t ferment, but by promoting intestinal movement, it raises the amount of water in the stool.
Prunus juice also has 6.1 grams (g) of sorbitol per 100 grams, according to a 2013 review. A sugar alcohol found in prune juice called sorbitol also ferments in the intestines and causes water to be absorbed via the stools.
These substances may work as a laxative when combined, boosting fiber consumption and enhancing gut health.
Prunes Vs Prune Juice.
Prunes, which are dried plums, are used to produce prune juice by manufacturers. Consuming entire prunes can be equally as beneficial for those who suffer from constipation as prune juice. According to 2018 research, those with low fiber intake who ingested 80 or 120 g of prunes daily had heavier and more frequent stools than those who did not.
Regular bowel motions and stool weight are signs of a healthy gut. The prunes’ consumers did not encounter any negative side effects. With 11.2-15.5 g of sorbitol per 100 g of dried fruit, prunes have more than double the quantity of sorbitol found in prune juice. Additionally, prunes contain more fiber, which facilitates the movement of stools through the digestive system.
- A serving of 10 prunes (about 100 g) has 7.1 g of fiber, compared to 1 g of fiber in 100 g of prune juice.
In other words, 10 prunes provide around 25% of the 28–34 g of fiber per day that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025 Reliable Source recommends for adults.
Use prune juice for Constipation in these 7 methods.
7 ways to get rid of constipation with prune juice
1. Don’t add anything to it.
The easiest and most direct way to avoid or treat constipation with prune juice is to drink it as is. It’s all about the size of the amount. Both experts agree that it’s best to start with a small amount of prune juice if you’ve never used it to avoid or treat diarrhea. “Start with four ounces and see how that makes you feel,” says Bonci. “Then, if you need to, slowly increase the amount.”
By itself, prune juice is quite thick, which not everyone likes. Bonci says that prune drinks that have been watered down might taste better, so look for them when you go shopping. She says that many prune juices come in eight-ounce bottles, but that you should start with a four-ounce dose, so only drink half. Lakewood Organic, Knudsen, and Langers are some names to look for.
2. Get it hot.
You might find that drinking a warm cup of prune juice before bed helps you go to the bathroom. After all, Bonci has already said that drinking prune juice at night lets it help your gut while you sleep. Both experts say that warm prune juice is just as healthy as cold prune juice from a nutritional standpoint. Just heat your four-ounce amount for about two minutes in the microwave, and you’re good to go.
3. Put it in a drink.
Dr. Hooshmand says that if you don’t like the taste of prune juice on its own (whether it’s cold or hot), you can add it to a drink with other frozen fruits. All fruits have fiber, which is an important food for keeping the digestive system working well. Adding prune juice to a smoothie is a great way to start the day that is even better for your gut.
Dr. Hooshmand says that freezing prune juice in an ice cube tray is one way to add it to drinks. So, you’ll have prune juice. ice cubes that you can just throw into your mixer with your other materials. Apples, avocados, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, figs, grapefruit, and guava are all foods that are high in fiber and have been shown to help with constipation.
4. Add other juices to it.
Mixing prune juice with a fruit juice you like is another way to make it taste better. “I really like prunes and orange juice together, or even prunes and apple juice or cranberry juice,” says Bonci. She also says that you should be aware that both apple juice and prune juice have sorbitol, which is a sugar alcohol. This means that the two juices together may be too much for the gut to handle at first. Again, start small.
5. Add it to salad Recipes.
In the U.S., only 5% of people get enough fiber every day. It’s no wonder that so many of us are stuck! A smart idea from Bonci is to top a salad with a sauce made with prune juice. This is a great way to help your gut in more than one way.
You can make a quick dressing by mixing the juice with oil and vinegar, or you can cook the juice for a few minutes to make it thicker before making the dressing. Beets, cucumbers, and celery are all-natural diuretics that you can add to your salad. Bulgur, lentils, kimchi, black beans, tempeh, and Swiss chard are all high in fiber and good for your gut health.
6. Put some of it in your muesli.
Bonci says that adding prune juice to your bowl of muesli by mixing it with other liquid cooking ingredients is a tasty way to make it sweeter, just like adding a handful of berries. This combination is also good for your gut because muesli is a good source of fiber, helps keep blood sugar levels steady, and makes you feel full so you don’t get hungry until lunch.
7. Use it as a Dressing.
Remember how Bonci said that drinking prune juice at night so it can work while you sleep can be helpful? That’s why adding it to your dinner can be helpful. She says that using it as part of a sauce for ribs or steak is a tasty way to use it.
Mix the prince juice with olive oil and any herbs you want, then rub the meat with the mixture and let it sit overnight. (Make sure to make plans!) You could also add teriyaki sauce to the mixture to make it taste even better.
7 Different Types of Prune Juice to Help with Constipation.
1. Prune Juice For Constipation.
- Get Your Hands on a Cup of Prunus Juice
- You may chug this whenever it suits your schedule.
- Consume a daily serving of 3–4 cups of prune juice.
- In only a day or two, you’ll begin to feel the laxative effects of prune juice.
2. Prune juice and milk of magnesia for constipation.
- 1 glass of prune juice
- Milk of Magnesia, 2 Tablespoons
- Mix the milk of magnesia with the prune juice and heat it for 30 to 45 seconds in the microwave.
- You may sip it while it’s still hot or let it cool somewhat.
- In a few hours, you should feel better after taking this medicine.
- Milk of magnesia, or magnesium hydroxide to give it its chemical name, is found in several over-the-counter antacids and laxatives. It induces bowel movement and facilitates evacuation by drawing fluids into the colon.
3. Constipation relief with butter and prune juice.
Use prune juice and butter to relieve constipation.
- Prunus cerasus juice, 6-8 ounces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For three to four minutes over medium heat, warm the prune juice.
- Toss in the butter and keep cooking for one more minute.
- You should wait for this combination to cool down. Take a sip.
- This treatment for constipation will work immediately. Make use of it as needed.
- Butter’s lubricating oils aid in the evacuation of waste from the digestive tract, reducing the likelihood of diarrhea.
4. Constipation may be avoided with apple and prune juice.
- Amount: 2 to 3 cups of prune juice
Two cups of apple juice - First thing in the morning on an empty stomach, drink the whole bottle of prune juice.
After thirty minutes, have some apple juice.
One hour after you’ve had your first glass of apple juice, have another. This aids in intestinal cleansing and restores regular bowel movement.
If you don’t have any apple juice, orange juice will do. - To ease constipation, try this in the morning.
- If you have chronic constipation or have gone more than three days without defecating, this is a very effective treatment. It stimulates bowel movement even in the most extreme cases of constipation.
5. Constipation: Olive Oil and Prune Juice.
- Extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon
Some prune juice, please
To do this, combine the oil with the prune juice and consume it. - When to Do It It may be necessary to repeat this process every few hours.
- The lipids in olive oil provide a smooth lining of the intestines, which speeds up the elimination process. There is anecdotal evidence to show that this natural cure aids in lubricating the digestive system and the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating the movement of waste products through the colon.
6. Constipation: coffee and prune juice.
- 1 glass of prune juice
- Coffee instant, 2 teaspoons
- Water, boiling, 1/4 cup
- The prune juice may be heated in a microwave for 45-60 minutes.
- Add the instant coffee that you’ve made with hot water to the prune juice.
- Consume when still piping hot.
- Hundreds of patients have shown improvements with only one consumption.
- The warmth of the mixture stimulates bowel activity and makes elimination less of a hassle.
7. Constipation? Try Some Oat Milk with Prunus Juice.
- One-half ounce of prune juice
- A half-glass of oat milk
- The Steps You Must Take
- To be consumed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, combine the two and drink.
- Do it first thing in the morning until you establish a regular bowel movement routine.
- Constipation may be relieved by combining oat milk with prune juice. This concoction makes passing stools simple.
Since not everyone has the same reaction to dietary modifications, the quantity of prune juice needed to gain relief from constipation varies from person to person while utilizing these therapies. If you suffer from constipation, try different amounts of this juice until you discover the sweet spot that works best for you. Choose fast-acting treatments if you’re in a pinch. whether you’ve been wondering whether prune juice may help with constipation, we’ve got some answers.
In addition to adding prune juice to your daily routine, you should also make it a point to consume at least two gallons of water and other fluids every day. One of the most prevalent reasons for this issue is dehydration, so knowing this is crucial. Constipation may be alleviated by making adjustments to your lifestyle, such as engaging in regular physical activity, keeping your body well-hydrated, and eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Added Advantages of Prunes.
According to an earlier assessment, frequently drinking prunes and prune juice may improve one’s health in the following ways in addition to relieving digestive issues:
- Enhancing sensations of fullness to decrease total calorie consumption and manage obesity
- The reduction of diabetes risk
- Decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Maintaining bone strength while minimizing bacterial development in the urinary tract
Making and consuming prune juice.
Regarding the usage of prune juice for constipation, there are no established rules. This is due, in part, to the fact that there is no established method for making or prescribing prune juice.
Researchers reported in 2022 that individuals benefitted from consuming 54 g, or around 54 milliliters (ml), of prune juice every day for eight weeks. A 2007 small, older research found that treating moderate constipation with 125 ml, or around half a cup, twice a day, was beneficial.
Dangers and Negative Consequences.
Consuming prunes or prune juice is a constipation treatment that has just a little risk. An increase in flatulence, or gas, is the most typical adverse effect that individuals report.
Pruning juice is strong in sugar and calories as well, however. Pruning juice from a trusted source weighs 256 grams and gives 182 calories, but just 2.56 grams of fiber. Increased risk of weight gain and blood sugar issues might result from high sugar consumption.
A serving of around 10 prunes has 240 calories and 38.1 g of sugar, but 7.1 g of fibre. Although it still contains a lot of sugar and calories, prior research indicates that their impact on blood sugar and insulin levels is rather little.
FAQ’s.
How much prune juice should I drink for constipation relief?
4 to 8 ounces (120-240 ml) of prune juice per day is normally the suggested dose for relieving constipation.
Is it safe to drink prune juice every day for constipation?
Yes, drinking prune juice every day to relieve constipation is typically harmless. However, if you have any worries, it is always good to speak with a healthcare provider.
Can I drink too much prune juice for constipation?
Although prune juice is normally healthy, excessive consumption might cause diarrhoea. It’s crucial to adhere to the dose instructions and pay attention to your body’s reaction.
What is the best time to consume prune juice for constipation relief?
Pruning juice may be consumed at any time, but there is no one ideal moment. Depending on your preferences, you may fit it into your regular schedule.
How long does it take for prune juice to work for constipation?
Depending on the person and their unique situation, prune juice may start to function in as little as a few hours or as long as a day.
Are there any side effects of drinking prune juice for constipation?
When ingesting prune juice in excess, some people may feel gas, bloating, or diarrhoea. Prune juice should be used in moderation, and you should pay attention to how your body reacts.
Can prune juice be diluted with water for constipation relief?
Yes, if you’d like, you may dilute prune juice with water. However, bear in mind that diluting it can lessen its efficiency, so adhering to the suggested dose is advised.
Should I drink prune juice on an empty stomach for constipation?
Pruning juice does not always need to be consumed on an empty stomach to relieve constipation. You may drink it whenever suits your schedule.
Can I mix prune juice with other juices to enhance its effects on constipation?
Yes, if you’d like, you may combine prune juice with other juices. However, be sure the mixture is appropriate for your palate and has no unfavourable consequences.
Can children drink prune juice for constipation, and what should be the dosage?
Children may drink prune juice to relieve constipation, but a paediatrician should be consulted to determine the right amount depending on the child’s age and individual requirements.
Is there a specific brand of prune juice that is recommended for constipation?
Prune juice is available from a number of reliable companies to ease constipation. It is best to choose a brand that employs premium ingredients and has happy customers.
Can pregnant women consume prune juice for constipation, and what dosage is safe?
Pruning juice may help pregnant women who are constipated if they eat it in moderation. To ascertain the safe dose during pregnancy, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider.
Are there any dietary restrictions or considerations when consuming prune juice for constipation relief?
Although there are no particular dietary limitations, it’s still crucial to eat a balanced meal and get enough fluids in addition to drinking prune juice for the best possible digestive health.
How much prune juice to give?
Depending on the patient’s age, tolerance level, and degree of constipation, a different volume of prune juice may be administered. For suggestions on proper dose, particularly for youngsters, it is preferable to speak with a medical practitioner or paediatrician.
How many mL of prune juice should I drink?
For relief from constipation, you should consume around 120-240 ml (4–8 ounces) of prune juice each day.
How quickly does prune juice work?
The effects of prune juice might take anywhere from a few hours to a day to become apparent, depending on the individual.
When is the best time to drink prune juice?
Prune juice may be consumed at any time, regardless of the ideal period for constipation. It may be consumed whenever it’s convenient for you and doesn’t interfere with your daily schedule.
Can I drink prune juice at night?
Yes, if you’d rather, you may sip prune juice at night. Prune juice may be consumed before bed to work over night, according to some people.
Is prune juice a strong laxative?
Due to the high fibre and sorbitol content of prune juice, it has natural laxative effects. Even though it sometimes works to relieve constipation, it is often regarded as a weak to moderate laxative.
Should you drink prune juice warm or cold?
Prune juice may be served at whichever temperature you choose. Depending on your taste, you may drink it warm, cold, or at room temperature.
How many times a day should you drink prune juice for constipation?
Pruning juice once a day is usually enough to relieve constipation. However, you may change the frequency in accordance with your demands and how prune juice affects your body.
What is better than prunes for constipation?
While healthy grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are additional high-fiber meals that may be helpful, prunes and prune juice are recognised for their efficacy in treating constipation. For general digestive health, it is advised to include a range of fiber-rich foods in your diet.
