Prune juice is a natural and effective home remedy for constipation. It is made from dried plums that are pureed and strained into juice. Prune juice contains natural sugars, fiber, and sorbitol that help to soften stools and stimulate bowel movements. However, the question remains, how often should you drink prune juice?
Recommended Daily Intake of Prune Juice
The recommended daily intake of prune juice varies for different groups of people. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends giving prune juice to infants with constipation, starting with 2 to 4 ounces per day. If the infant doesn’t have a bowel movement within the next 24 hours, the amount can be increased to 4 to 6 ounces per day. Dosages should be adjusted based on the infant’s age, weight, and severity of constipation. Parents should talk to their pediatrician about the appropriate amount for their child.
For adults, the recommended daily intake of prune juice is 4 to 8 ounces per day, preferably in the morning. Adults should start with smaller amounts and increase gradually, especially if they are not used to consuming high-fiber foods. Drinking too much prune juice can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
When to Drink Prune Juice
Prune juice can be taken at any time of the day, but it is most effective when consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. The reason for this is that prune juice stimulates bowel movements within 6 to 12 hours of consumption. Drinking prune juice before bed can cause nocturnal bowel movements that can disrupt sleep.
Precautions While Drinking Prune Juice
While prune juice is generally safe for most people, there are a few precautions to take.
Firstly, people who have digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other gastrointestinal issues should consult their doctor before adding prune juice to their diet.
Secondly, people on medication should be cautious while drinking prune juice because it can interact with some medications like blood thinners and medications for diabetes. It is essential to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before combining prune juice with medication.
Thirdly, people with a history of kidney stones should avoid drinking prune juice as it is high in oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
Conclusion
Prune juice is a safe and natural remedy for constipation that works for both infants and adults. However, it’s important to follow the recommended daily intake to avoid any unwanted side effects. Drinking prune juice in the morning before breakfast on an empty stomach is the most effective way to stimulate bowel movements. People with digestive disorders or those on medication should talk to their doctor before adding prune juice to their diet. Prune juice is a healthy addition to anyone’s diet in moderation, but it is not a substitute for a high-fiber diet.
To read more about the health benefits of prunes, click here.
FAQ
Is it OK to drink prune juice everyday?
Prune juice is a great source of nutrients that are essential in maintaining good health, including antioxidants, fiber, vitamins A and K, and minerals like potassium and iron. Antioxidants are especially important because they protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The fiber content in prune juice aids digestion, making it an effective remedy for constipation. Similarly, the potassium content helps regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Iron is important in the production of hemoglobin, which is responsible for circulating oxygen in the body.
While prune juice has a lot of health benefits, it’s important to keep in mind that it also contains a significant amount of sugar. One cup of prune juice contains around 30 grams of natural sugar, which is equivalent to the sugar found in many fruits combined. Consuming large amounts of sugar can quickly add up and affect your overall health, particularly if you’re diabetic or prediabetic. Drinking prune juice in moderation is key, with a recommended serving size of 1 cup a day.
It’s also important to note that consuming prune juice excessively can have other negative effects on the body. Initially, overconsumption can lead to bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, especially if you’re not used to consuming plenty of fibers. Additionally, consuming large amounts of prune juice can upset the body’s potassium-sodium balance, which can lead to heart palpitations, muscle cramps, and other related conditions.
Drinking prune juice in moderation can bring good health benefits, such as antioxidants and fiber, to your diet, but it’s important to be mindful of the sugar content. Consume a serving size of 1 cup a day, primarily if you’re at risk of prediabetes or diabetes. If you do experience any adverse effects, it’s advisable to decrease your prune juice intake and talk to your doctor to determine if this drink is suited to your dietary needs.
How often to drink prune juice for constipation?
Prune juice is a natural and effective way to alleviate constipation, which is a common digestive problem that affects many people from time to time. Prune juice contains sorbitol and fiber, which work together to promote regular bowel movements and softer stools. The regular consumption of prune juice can lead to the overall improvement of digestion, making it a great option for people who are experiencing constipation.
The recommended amount of prune juice for adults to consume is roughly half a cup per day, which is about four ounces. This amount is enough to provide the necessary fiber and sorbitol to help the digestive system work optimally. However, for people with mild constipation, having half a cup of prune juice twice a day is also very helpful in promoting regular bowel movements.
It is essential to maintain a consistent intake of prune juice to ensure its effectiveness in reducing constipation symptoms. Drinking prune juice regularly will also help to keep the digestive system healthy and working efficiently. It is beneficial to drink prune juice on an empty stomach in the morning to achieve efficient digestion. It is also a good idea to consume prune juice before going to bed as well, as this allows the effects to work overnight.
If you consume too much prune juice, it can lead to diarrhea and abdominal pain. So it’s vital to consume it moderately and increase the amount gradually if you are starting. prune juice is a simple, natural, and effective way to combat constipation, with a recommended amount of half a cup once or twice a day. Drinking prune juice regularly can alleviate the symptoms of constipation, making it a part of a healthy digestive routine.
When should I drink prune juice morning or night?
Prune juice is a natural laxative that can aid in the management of constipation. When it comes to the ideal time to drink prune juice, it depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some studies suggest that drinking it in the morning may be more effective.
Typically, people who suffer from constipation drink prune juice in the morning to help facilitate bowel movements throughout the day. Starting with 4-8 ounces of prune juice in the morning can be a first-line therapy for relieving constipation. However, it’s important to ensure that you stay hydrated as prune juice could lead to more severe constipation if consumed excessively.
Some people may prefer to drink prune juice in the evening because they find it more effective before bed. Consuming prune juice at night can help stimulate bowel movements in the morning, which is a common habit for some people. Keep in mind that drinking prune juice before bed may also make you feel more bloated or gassy throughout the night.
Alternatively, if you prefer eating prunes, you can start with 3 or 4 prunes daily for mild constipation and increase this number over time for more severe symptoms. It’s essential to drink plenty of fluids while increasing fiber intake to avoid worsening constipation.
When to drink prune juice ultimately depends on personal preference and how your body responds to it. To determine what works best for you, you can experiment with different times of day and monitor how your body responds to it. It is worth noting that drinking prune juice or consuming prunes should be done in moderation and can result in bloating, gas, or even diarrhea if consumed excessively.
