Downloads and publications for Relieving constipation and promoting healthy bowels (2024)

FAQs

What simple trick empties your bowels immediately? ›

Relief within minutes. Rectal enemas and suppositories are the fastest acting laxatives available. These include saline and mineral oil enemas as well as glycerin and bisacodyl rectal suppositories. Common OTC products in this group include Fleet enema, Pedia-Lax, and the Magic Bullet.

A saline laxative, such as magnesium citrate, can work in as few as 30 minutes. Coffee has been known to work quickly as well. How can I loosen my bowels naturally? Eat fiber-rich foods such as unpeeled fruits, leafy greens, chia seeds, legumes, and prunes.

Crouching on a chair

Sitting a certain way for seven seconds is not proven to help constipation. However, changing your body posture while on the toilet can make things easier. Place your feet on a stool to place your knees higher than your hips.

Prunes (as a form of plant-based dietary fiber) and psyllium are well-regarded ways to treat chronic constipation. Not surprisingly, all participants were able to achieve the primary goal of increased bowel movements. It seems that kiwifruit achieved this benefit with fewer side effects.

Eat a yellow banana after your last meal of the day.

The soluble fiber from the banana will accompany your meal while it digests, making it easier to pass that night or in the morning.

Perform stimulation with your finger every day until you start to have a regular pattern of bowel movements. You can also stimulate bowel movements by using a suppository (glycerin or bisacodyl) or a small enema. Some people find it helpful to drink warm prune juice or fruit nectar.

Osmotic laxatives, including magnesium citrate and magnesium hydroxide, may produce a bowel movement in 30 minutes to 6 hours.

Which fruit has the most laxative effect? ›

Apples and pears: These fruits contain high levels of water, which can help to ease digestion and prevent constipation. Grapes: These fruits have a high skin-to-flesh ratio and are fiber-rich. They also contain a lot of water, which helps to add moisture to hard stools.

In general, fiber supplements are the gentlest on your body. These also are called bulk-forming laxatives. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.

You can do a natural colon cleanse by adding more fiber and probiotics to your diet, as well as by trying a saltwater flush or mixing apple cider vinegar with honey. While you may find that the practice helps ease bloating or other digestive issues, there's no scientific support for doing a natural colon cleanse.

Beneficial drinks for constipation include prune juice, lemon juice, apple juice, and cranberry juice. However, some constipation relief over-the-counter (OTC) medications can also come in a drink format.

A range of dietary and lifestyle changes like eating more fiber, staying hydrated, and exercising more may help. If you have severe symptoms, taking laxatives or other OTC medications can help activate your digestive system. Be sure to reach out to a healthcare provider if you often have difficult bowel movements.