5 fruits that help fight constipation

Constipation, also known as “intestinal constipation”, a term used in medicine, is a medical condition in which the individual cannot have a bowel movement. According to gastroenterologist Ronaldo Carneiro Santos, among the characteristics of the problem are excessive effort when evacuating, stools with increased consistency or hardened, reduction in the normal frequency of evacuation – less than 3 times a week – and a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

Dangers of Constipation

In addition, the condition can also develop some diseases. “Fissures in the anus, hemorrhoids and intestinal diverticula are quite common diseases associated with constipation. It is also worth remembering that constipation increases the chance of developing bowel cancer”, warns the gastroenterologist.

fruits against constipation

To avoid constipation, eating foods rich in fiber and water is essential. An example of this are fruits, as they help speed up intestinal transit and favor the formation of feces. Next, check out 5 fruits that help loosen the intestine!

1. Papaya

Papaya is a fruit rich in fiber, water and nutrients, which makes it beneficial for constipation. Because it contains digestive enzymes, like papaya, this fruit has an excellent laxative power, as its fibers help break down food, facilitating digestion.

two. Orange

Known for their high vitamin C content, oranges are also rich in dietary fiber such as pectin, cellulose and hemicellulose, compounds that facilitate digestion and help the intestines to function better.

3. Plum

Plums are rich in soluble (pulp) and insoluble (peel) fibers that help prevent constipation. This is because they increase water absorption, which favors the intestinal transit. In addition to fibers, the fruit is also rich in sorbitol, which also softens the stool and facilitates evacuation.

4. Banana

The banana is known for its many health benefits, including helping to treat constipation, although there is a thought that the fruit “binds”. Great source of potassium, mineral important for gut health, it helps regulate muscle function and maintains body water. In addition, the fruit is ideal to eat between meals, when that desire to attack a sweet appears, since it has tryptophan, an element that increases serotonin levels, the well-being hormone.

5. Pear

The pear is a fruit rich in vitamins A, B and C, fiber and water. Source of sorbitol, a type of sugar that has a laxative effect, helps to retain water in the stool, making the evacuation process easier. However, in order to obtain the benefits of this fruit, it is necessary to consume it with the peel, as this is where most of the fibers and sorbitol are found.