Constipation affects one in 10 people, making it a significant issue that can impact daily life. According to new guidance from researchers at King’s College London, eating kiwi fruit and drinking mineral-rich water may be effective ways to relieve constipation symptoms.
Drinking water high in minerals is better than tap water for constipation relief, and magnesium oxide supplements have been found to improve symptoms such as lower tummy pain and bloating. While there are many more options available, the standard advice of increasing fibre intake may not be enough.
Researchers recommend eating 2-3 kiwis per day or 8-10 prunes to improve constipation symptoms. The high fibre content in kiwi fruit affects the gut, increasing stool volume and inducing bowel contractions. Drinking mineral-rich water and taking magnesium oxide supplements can also have a positive impact on digestive health.
This new guidance is based on evidence from 75 clinical trials and provides up-to-date advice for doctors treating patients with constipation. The British Dietetic Association has funded the project to produce these guidelines, which aim to empower health professionals and their patients to manage constipation through diet-focused approaches.
Key points:
* Eating kiwi fruit and drinking mineral-rich water may help relieve constipation symptoms
* Magnesium oxide supplements have been found to improve symptoms such as lower tummy pain and bloating
* Increasing fibre intake is not the only solution, and there are many other options available
* Drinking tap water can be replaced with mineral-rich water for better digestive health
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd9kdkxy3veo