Cranberry juice is a perfect superfood containing minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins in substantial amounts. According to some studies, cranberries reduce the risk and slow the progression of certain cancers, lower bad cholesterol and blood pressure, improve circulation, prevent heart disease, and boost immune function.
Many people are unaware that this tasty beverage can also relieve constipation. In this article, you will learn why cranberry juice can help you poop, the causes of constipation, and how to use cranberry juice to relieve constipation.
What are the health advantages of cranberry juice for bowel movements? Take a look at it below.
This juice has a tart flavour due to salicylic acid or salicylate. Researchers who studied the effects of cranberries found that natural salicylates in cranberry juice may increase good gut bacteria and decrease Enterobacteriaceae, such as E. coli, which are present in higher levels in patients with digestive conditions such as IBS.
A specific population, those with IBS, who may struggle with symptoms such as constipation, may benefit from cranberry juice. Other factors may also cause constipation.
Constipation is often caused by dehydration. Without enough water, the body retains fluid generally secreted in the colon, making stools more compact and difficult to pass. Drinking fluids, such as cranberry or prune juice diluted with water, can help relieve constipation.
An 8-ounce serving of the juice contains about 14 grams of carbohydrates and 120 calories. When the body consumes the right amount of calories and fluids, the large intestine contracts and moves the stool.
Drinking cranberry juice has the following benefits:
Vitamin C and E-rich source
Cranberry juice is a rich source of antioxidants that promote overall health.
Additionally, it contains vitamins and minerals such as:
The red colour of cranberries is caused by phytochemicals called proanthocyanidins.
A PAC can prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls and causing infection.
Cranberries contain other compounds, in addition to phytonutrients, with anti-inflammatory properties. Over time, inflammation damages blood vessels, including arteries. Cranberries contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce heart disease risk.
Antioxidants, also known as free radicals, help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules. Unlike other fruits and vegetables, cranberries contain unique antioxidants. Cranberries have also been shown to reduce cancer risk through dietary changes.
Cranberries prevent Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) from growing and multiplying in the stomach lining. H. pylori causes stomach ulcers and even stomach cancer.
In addition, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as constipation, may also be improved by cranberries.
The causes of constipation can cause discomfort and abdominal pain, so you'll want to find out what causes it.
Many factors can cause constipation:
Lack of fibre is often the cause of constipation. Fibre absorbs water, adding moisture to the stool and making it easier to pass. Constipation can be minimised by eating a high-fibre diet.
A lack of exercise can also cause constipation. As a result of exercise, the digestive system is stimulated, and waste is moved along the digestive tract. A sedentary lifestyle may cause constipation.
Too much iron in the diet can cause constipation. Iron helps the body create new. If you ingest too much iron, talk to your doctor about the right amount of iron supplements for red blood cells.
Pregnancy Constipation is also common during pregnancy. Hormonal changes and the baby's added weight can slow down the digestive system. Drinking fluids and eating high-fibre foods can prevent constipation.
Certain medications can also cause constipation. Pain medication, aluminium-containing antacids, and antidepressants fall into this category. Ask your doctor about possible alternatives if you think your medication is causing your constipation.
How to Relieve Constipation
Constipation can be relieved by drinking enough fluids. As well as increasing fluids, cranberry juice contains calories, which may stimulate bowel movements.
Constipation can also be relieved by eating high-fibre foods.
Fibre to stool adds bulk and moisture, making it easier to pass.
High-fibre foods include:
Taking a fibre supplement may help you get enough fibre from food alone.
A fibre supplement can also cause constipation if you don't drink enough fluids.
Constipation can also be relieved through exercise. All body parts, including your digestive system, are kept active by exercise. Constipation, however, could be caused by a sedentary lifestyle.
Foods containing prebiotics promote the growth of good gut bacteria or beneficial microorganisms. Beneficial bacteria help maintain a healthy digestive system. Onions, garlic, and leeks contain prebiotics. Yoghurt, for example, contains probiotics, which can be taken as a supplement. Constipation may be relieved by taking prebiotics and probiotics.
Additionally, cranberry juice contains calories, which can stimulate bowel movements by increasing fluid intake.
If you consume too much cranberry juice, it can cause diarrhoea. Constipation can be relieved by drinking moderately and getting enough fibre and fluids.
In addition to cranberry juice, other juices can help, including prune juice, apple juice, and pear juice. For juices, choose all-natural products without added sugars or high fructose corn syrup since these added sugars can cause constipation. You can also reduce the sugar content of the juice by diluting it with water. If you don't drink enough fluids while taking a fibre supplement, you may experience constipation.
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