What drink is good for constipation?

Constipation is a common condition affecting people of all ages. It occurs when stool passes through the large intestine too slowly, becoming hard and dry. This makes bowel movements painful and infrequent. While there are many medical treatments for constipation, some simple dietary changes can also help get things moving again.

What causes constipation?

There are several potential causes of constipation:

• Not enough fiber in the diet
• Not enough fluids
• Lack of exercise
• Various medications
• Stress and anxiety
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Specific medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome

Of these, insufficient fiber and fluid intake are among the most common triggers. Fiber gives bulk to stool and helps it move smoothly through the colon. Water and other liquids help keep stool soft and easy to pass.

How can fluids help relieve constipation?

Drinking more fluids, especially water, can often help resolve mild constipation. Fluids help by:

• Softening stool so it passes more easily
• Adding weight and volume to stool
• Stimulating muscle contractions in the intestines

Experts recommend drinking at least 8 glasses of fluids per day when constipated. Water is best, but other options can help too.

Best drinks for constipation relief

Here are some of the top drinks to help get things moving again:

1. Water

Plain water is the simplest go-to. It hydrates the body, keeps stool soft, and supports regularity. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water per day.

2. Prune juice

Prune juice is a classic constipation aid. Prunes contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol with natural laxative effects. Just 8 ounces of prune juice per day can help stimulate bowel movements.

3. Warm liquids

Warm and hot fluids like coffee, tea, and broth may stimulate contractions in the colon to push stool along. Caffeine in coffee can also have a laxative effect for some people.

4. Milk of magnesia

Milk of magnesia is a liquid laxative containing magnesium that draws water into the intestines. Taking 2-4 tablespoons at bedtime helps induce bowel movements the next morning.

5. Aloe vera juice

Aloe vera juice contains compounds called anthraquinones that have laxative effects similar to senna. Drink 2-4 ounces of pure aloe juice daily for gentle constipation relief.

6. Smoothies

Fruit and vegetable smoothies provide fluid along with fiber, potassium, and nutrients that improve regularity. Blend spinach, kale, berries, banana, avocado, or other ingredients.

7. Sparkling water

The carbonation in sparkling water may stimulate movement in the intestines when plain water gets boring. Flavored seltzer adds variety without sugar or artificial ingredients.

8. Vegetable broth

Warm vegetable broth provides hydration along with nutrients from vegetables. Opt for low-sodium versions and sip 1-2 cups daily.

9. Coffee

The caffeine in coffee may stimulate contractions in the colon, triggering bowel movements in some people. But too much caffeine can become dehydrating, so drink in moderation.

10. Pear juice

Like apple juice, pear juice contains sorbitol, a natural laxative. Enjoy 4-8 ounces of pear juice per day to ease constipation.

Other constipation remedies

While staying hydrated is important, other remedies can also help get things moving again:

• Eat more high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to stimulate the intestines
• Establish a bathroom routine and don’t ignore the urge to go
• Try probiotic foods like yogurt to support healthy digestion
• Consider psyllium husk as a fiber supplement
• Ask a doctor about osmotic laxatives like magnesium citrate

When to see a doctor

While occasional constipation is normal, seek medical advice if you experience:

• No bowel movements for 3+ days
• Hard, dry stools
• Bleeding during bowel movements
• Bowel obstruction
• Unexplained weight loss
• Constant straining but inability to pass stool

These signs may indicate an underlying health condition requiring treatment. The elderly and young children with constipation also need medical attention.

The takeaway

Mild dehydration is a common cause of constipation. Drinking more fluids, especially water, can help soften stool and restore regular bowel movements. Prune juice, warm liquids, aloe vera juice, and smoothies also hydrate and provide nutrients to support digestion. Along with dietary changes and exercise, proper hydration can help prevent and relieve frustrating constipation episodes.