Much advice has been given over the years regarding diet. This is unhealthy, that’s unhealthy, don’t even look at that or you’ll gain fifty pounds! There are endless varieties of foods that can lead to constipation. Anyone experiencing this problem can attest to the embarrassment and discomfort that it causes. Are there foods that can provide relief?

There are quite a few foods that can relieve constipation. Lets take a moment to explore some of these. Two foods that are very high in fiber and thus useful to constipation sufferers are figs and dates. Because of their high mineral and fiber content, these fruits aid the digestion process and may relieve constipation within twenty four hours.

Grape lovers will be happy to note that one or two pounds of their favorite fruit daily can provide them with relief. The fact that grapes are full of vitamins, fiber and minerals may account for this effect. The skin of these beauties also contains an antioxidant called resveratol which only adds to the health benefits of this fruit.

The common, unassuming papaya is another of natures constipation fighters. High in fiber and easily digestible in its ripened state, the papaya is a very useful aid to digestion. The reasons for this are the protein-digesting enzymes papain and chymopapain which create and maintain a free flowing system. The high number of vitamins and antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta carotene only add to the health benefits of this delicious fruit. It can be added to delicious smoothies, used as an afternoon snack or as a part of a balanced breakfast.

The high fiber content of persimmons (3.6g per 100g) as well as minerals like phosphorus, potassium and magnesium makes it a powerful weapon against constipation. Vitamins A and C as well as folate complete the package. This pretty little fruit is much more than just a laxative. Add it to your diet and your body’s vitamin reserve will be replenished and you will be constipation free.

Raspberries are added to this list because they are rich in vitamins A and C. It also contains high amounts of minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. These tasty little fruit can relieve constipation quickly and replenish your vitamin reserve.

Last of all is Mr. Prune. I say Mr. Prune because among all fruits and vegetables prunes reign supreme because of their nutritional value and fiber content. Prunes are considered to be the best natural way of relieving constipation and here’s why: The prune is made up of forty percent insoluble fiber which works along with your lower intestine in disposing of waste. This incredible food makes all other fruits and vegetables pale into insignificance by virtue of its antioxidant content as well as its eighteen minerals and vitamins. Just think, in one fruit you get vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin A, zinc, thiamine, sodium, selenium, riboflavin, potassium, phosphorous, pantothenic acid, niacin, manganese, magnesium, iron, copper and calcium. Nothing can beat that. Pick up a bag of these and set your colon free.

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