Are dried apricots good for constipation!
July 11, 2020
Is dried apricot good for constipation? Dried apricots, which are a source of healing with rich nutritional value; facilitates digestion, provides a feeling of satiety, helps with weight control and is good for constipation. So if you have this constipation problem you can consume dried apricots against constipation. This is one benefit (Pros) of dried apricot that can be list in a list of pros and cons of eating dried apricots.
Dried Fruits for Constipation Relief: What Science Says About Their Natural Laxative Power
For generations, people have turned to dried fruits like prunes, raisins, and figs to help relieve constipation naturally. Now, a new clinical trial has confirmed what many have known for years — these fruits truly boost digestive health and promote regular bowel movements, thanks to their rich combination of fiber and sorbitol.
Study Confirms the Digestive Benefits of Dried Fruits
A research team from King’s College London recently presented groundbreaking findings at a digestive health conference. Using a unique method — measuring stool weight — they found that eating just half a cup (about 3 ounces) of mixed dried fruits per day significantly improved bowel regularity in adults with chronic constipation.
“Living with constipation can seriously affect quality of life,” explains Dr. Simon Steenson, the study’s lead author. “But our results show that a small serving of dried fruits each day can make a noticeable difference.”
Steenson also noted that adding dried fruits or even certain fruit juices could be a simple and effective way to support better digestion and relieve constipation naturally.
One Month of Dried Fruits Improved Bowel Health
The trial involved 150 adults aged 18 to 65, all diagnosed with functional constipation, meaning they had fewer than seven bowel movements weekly and at least 25% of those were small or hard.
Before the study began, participants consumed less than 30 grams of fiber daily — far below the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, which recommend 22–34 grams depending on age and gender.
Participants were divided into three groups:
Dried fruit group: A little over 3 ounces of a mix of prunes, raisins, and apricots daily
Juice group: Fruit juices with the same calories and sorbitol levels
Placebo group: A calorie-matched syrup without active ingredients
After just four weeks, those eating dried fruits experienced a 21-gram increase in stool weight per day, compared to only 1.6 grams in the placebo group.
They also reported 1.3 more complete bowel movements per week and said they felt their bowels emptied more completely and naturally, without using laxatives or manual assistance.
Why Dried Fruits Work So Well for Constipation
According to Dr. Kyle Staller, a gastroenterologist at Mass General Hospital, this study reinforces that fiber and sorbitol work together to promote healthy digestion.
Fiber helps bulk up stool and retain water in the colon.
Sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol found in fruits, pulls water into the intestines, softening stools and making them easier to pass.
These two nutrients also feed beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthier microbiome and smoother digestive function.
“This combination of fiber and sorbitol is what makes dried fruit such a powerful natural remedy for constipation,” says Dr. Staller.
Juice vs. Dried Fruit: Which Works Better?
While those in the fruit juice group also saw improvements in bowel movement frequency, their stool weight increased by 8 grams less than those eating whole dried fruits. Some participants also mentioned experiencing more stomach gurgling or bloating after drinking juice.
This suggests that whole dried fruits may be more effective for constipation relief due to their higher fiber content.
Don’t Overdo It — Too Much Can Backfire
Even though dried fruits can be a gentle and natural way to ease constipation, experts warn against overconsumption.
Eating large amounts of fiber and sorbitol can lead to gas, bloating, or diarrhea, particularly in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
FAQS
Can too much dried fruit cause constipation?
Fruit, especially dried fruit like apricot, is loaded with fiber and is one of the foods that help relieve constipation. With water, fiber in dry apricots helps give stool the right consistency to pass easily.
Are apricots high in fiber? & Are dried apricots a good source of fiber?
Can you eat dried apricots if you have constipation?
Yes, you can eat dried apricots if you have constipation, and they may actually help alleviate it. Dried apricots are rich in fiber—about 9.5 grams per cup, compared to 3.1 grams in a cup of fresh apricot halves—which helps promote regular bowel movements and adds bulk to your stools. This fiber can aid in moving waste through your digestive system more smoothly.
If you’re having trouble chewing, consider soaking and cooking dried fruits like prunes and raisins to make them softer. Fresh fruits such as berries, peaches, plums, and rhubarb, particularly when eaten with their skins, can also be beneficial.
For ongoing constipation prevention, continue to include dried apricots in your diet to maintain a high fiber intake. Aim for 20 to 35 grams of fiber daily, as recommended by MayoClinic.com, and drink plenty of water to help your body effectively use the fiber. Consult your doctor to tailor your fiber and water intake to your specific needs.
Are apricots good for bowel movements?
Apricots are generally beneficial for bowel movements.
Dried apricots for constipation during pregnancy?
Apricots contain so much fiber and that is why eating them during pregnancy can help overcome constipation. Dry or not apricots also help in improving digestion during pregnancy.
Dried apricots for constipation of baby?
Are apricots good for baby constipation? Apricots can provide relief from constipation if it is consumed by a baby. The dietary fibre inside the fruit helps in bowel movement. Giving six or seven portions of this fruit to a baby can provide him relief from constipation. But don’t give dry apricots to 3 or 4 months old babies who are not used to eat hard things. As with other fruits dry or fresh, it is better to introduce them anywhere from 6 months old and older.
Are dried apricots a good source of potassium?
Yes, dried apricots are a good source of potassium, as they contain 1160 mg of potassium per 100 grams, which can meet 25% of our daily potassium needs. When you consume 30 grams of dried apricots, you’ll get about 438 mg of potassium, which covers 7% of your daily requirement.
Is apricot juice or nectar good for constipation?
Generally, the fiber content that is inside fruits is lost when fruit is juiced, but that’s not the case with apricot juice. When apricot is juiced it still keeps most of the fiber, and can help relieve constipation.
Are dried apricots a natural laxative?
Dried apricot contains sorbitol which is a natural laxative.
Do dried apricots cause constipation?
Dried apricots themselves are not a common cause of constipation, but they can lead to intestinal obstruction in certain situations. A case study described a 56-year-old man who experienced acute intestinal obstruction after consuming dried apricots. The apricot, though small enough to pass through the stomach, swelled in the intestines and caused a blockage, particularly in the terminal ileum. This type of obstruction, caused by undigested food, is rare and more frequently seen in children, older individuals without teeth, or those with mental disorders. Thus, while dried apricots are not typically associated with constipation, they can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed without adequate chewing.
Are dried apricots healthy snack?
Yes. You can enjoy dried apricots as a healthy snack, as they are not only delicious but also contain good amounts of fiber, copper, potassium, and vitamins A and E.
Will apricots help with constipation? & Does dried apricots cause diarrhea?
Are apricots good for constipation?: Yes, dried apricots can help with constipation. Eating about a quarter cup of dried apricots, which provides roughly 3 grams of fiber, can be an effective way to increase your daily fiber intake and support regular bowel movements. However, it’s important to consume them in moderation to avoid potential gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea.
What are the health benefits of eating apricots?
- A Rich Source of Polyphenols
- High In Fiber
- Rich In Vitamin A Carotenoids
- Good Source of Potassium
- Lowers Blood Sugar Response When Displacing Simple Carbohydrate Foods
Which dry fruit is best for constipation?
What is the best fruit to relieve constipation?
Dragon fruit, apple, pearsi.
What foods relieve constipation quickly?
Carrots, broccoli, green peas, berries, apple, orange, lentils, black beans, kidney beans, soybeans, and chickpeas
Are canned apricots good for constipation?
Yes, canned apricots can be good for constipation, but you should be mindful of their sugar content.
Does dried apricots cause diarrhea?
Yes, dried apricots can cause diarrhea in some people due to their high fiber content and the presence of sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol.
What are the dried apricots side effects?
The side effects of dried apricots may be digestive discomfort such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea due to their high fiber content and sorbitol content.
Will popcorn make you constipated?
Popcorn is unlikely to cause constipation. In fact, it can be beneficial for digestive health due to its fiber content. Popcorn contains a decent amount of fiber—about 3.6 grams per three cups of air-popped popcorn, which is similar to the fiber found in one cup of cooked brown rice or oatmeal. Fiber is crucial for regular bowel movements and overall digestive wellness. While high-fiber foods like vegetables, beans, fruits, and bran are commonly recommended for preventing constipation, popcorn can also be a good option when included in a balanced diet.
Will dried prunes help constipation?
Yes, dried prunes can help relieve constipation. Scientific studies consistently show that prunes and prune juice are effective in alleviating constipation. According to Anita Mirchandani, MS, RD, CDN, prunes can stimulate the gastrocolic reflex and promote the movement of food through the digestive tract. However, while prunes can provide relief, the best approach to managing constipation is to focus on prevention through a combination of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration.
Will raisins help with constipation?
Will eating raisins help constipation?: Raisins may help with constipation, but the evidence is mixed. A 2021 review of research found that while some studies indicated raisins could speed up stool passage through the digestive system, others did not show a significant effect, even with similar amounts of raisins. Despite these mixed results, raisins can be part of a balanced diet that promotes regular bowel movements, so they may be beneficial for some individuals.
Treatment of Constipation:
If you think you are constipated, talk to your doctor to rule out a more serious problem. If tests show no disease or blockage, and if your doctor approves, try these changes:
- Add fiber to your diet by eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, either cooked or raw, and more whole-grain cereals and breads. Dried fruits, such as apricots, prunes, and figs, are high in fiber.
- If your diet does not include natural fiber, you may need to add a small amount of bran to baked goods, cereal, and fruit. This may cause some bloating and gas in the beginning. Make diet changes slowly to allow your system to adapt. Look for fiber products such as psyllium seed in the grocery store.
- Be sure to get enough fluids. Without fluids, constipation can get worse. Drinking enough water and juice can help you have regular bowel movements. Talk with your doctor about how much water you should drink.
- Stay active. This is important for overall health, too. Do things that keep you moving and active. For example, go for walks. Find physical things that you enjoy doing, and make them a part of your everyday life.
Other Posts:
Pros and cons of ginger and ginger tea
Related Searchs:
are dried apricots a good laxative, are dried apricots as good as prunes for constipation, are apricots good for constipation, are dried apricots good for constipation treatment, will apricots help with constipation?, will dried prunes help constipation, foods good for constipation: bowel movement, after surgery, babies, in toddlers, in children, older people, relief, in adults
Sources:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/new-poop-study-asks-can-dried-fruit-cure-constipation/
https://www.livestrong.com/article/23604-popcorn-cause-constipation/
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/constipation/do-prunes-help-constipation
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2021/fo/d1fo01125a
Discover more from Pros & Cons Reviews
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.