Relieve Constipation with Pear Juice - Foods That Help and Foods to Avoid

The Benefits of Pear Juice for Relieving Constipation

Constipation is a very common digestive problem that affects people of all ages. It occurs when stool passes through the large intestine too slowly, becoming hard, dry and difficult to eliminate. Constipation has many causes, including poor diet, lack of exercise, various medications, low fiber intake, dehydration and ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement.

While constipation may seem like an inconvenience, it can negatively impact your quality of life. Fortunately, making dietary changes and using natural laxatives like pear juice can often provide constipation relief. Read on to learn more about using pear juice as a home remedy for constipation.

Why Pear Juice Helps Relieve Constipation

Drinking pear juice is an easy and effective home remedy for constipation. Here’s why it works so well:

• Pears contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber that acts as a mild laxative by drawing water into the intestines and spurring contractions. This helps soften and add bulk to stool.
• Pears are rich in sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol with laxative effects that pulls water into the colon.
• The high water content in pears and pear juice helps hydrate the body and soften stool.
• Antioxidants in pears can reduce inflammation in the intestines.
• Pears contain phenolic compounds that stimulate bile production to improve digestion.

The sorbitol, fiber, water and electrolyte content in pear juice make it very effective at alleviating constipation naturally. It’s best to drink it on an empty stomach, such as first thing in the morning.

Research on Pear Juice and Constipation

Several studies have found that pear juice and other pear products can help treat chronic constipation.

In one study, 20 elderly patients with chronic constipation drank 200ml of pear juice twice a day. After 4 weeks, stool frequency increased significantly and laxative use decreased.

Another trial gave participants 6 grams of sorbitol from pear pulp or juice daily for 6 weeks. Stool frequency improved and laxative use significantly decreased compared to the placebo group.

Additional research found that eating 300g of pears per day for several weeks improved bowel function and decreased laxative use in constipated patients. The researchers noted that pears contain even more sorbitol than prune juice, a popular home remedy.

Overall, studies demonstrate that regular consumption of pears, pear juice or sorbitol supplements helps improve stool frequency, consistency and ease of passage in people with chronic constipation.

Tips for Using Pear Juice to Relieve Constipation

Here are some tips on using pear juice as a natural laxative:

• Drink a large glass of pure pear juice on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. This maximizes the benefits.
• Look for 100% pure pear juice with no added sugars. You can find it in the fruit juice or health food sections.
• Eat 1-2 whole pears per day. The fiber in whole pears provides even more constipation relief.
• For additional relief, mix pear juice with prune juice and yogurt. Prune juice also contains sorbitol and yogurt provides probiotics.
• When making pear juice at home, leave the skin on for extra fiber and nutrients.
• Children can drink diluted pear juice. Mix 50% pear juice and 50% water.
• Drink pear juice daily as a preventive measure if you're prone to constipation.

The Best Pears for Constipation Relief

The sorbitol and fiber content can vary between pear varieties. These types contain the highest amounts and work especially well for constipation:

• Asian pears - Asian pears contain up to 6 times more sorbitol than other varieties.
• Bartlett pears - Bartlett pears contain more sorbitol and fiber than d’Anjou pears.
• Bosc pears - Bosc pears are very high in fiber and water.
• Doyenne du Comice - These soft, sweet pears are high in sorbitol.
• Forelle pears - Forelle pears offer both fiber and sorbitol.
• Red Bartlett - Red Bartletts offer plenty of constipation-relieving fiber.

For best results, opt for pear juice made from these high sorbitol/high fiber varieties.

Additional Constipation Home Remedies

While pear juice is highly effective at relieving constipation naturally, you can get even better results by combining it with other remedies. Here are some additional home remedies to consider:

• Prunes - Prunes are famously effective at relieving constipation due to their high fiber content. They also contain sorbitol.
• Warm lemon water - Some lemon juice in warm water helps stimulate the bowels.
• Molasses - Unsulfured blackstrap molasses contains vitamins and minerals that soften stool.
• Castor oil - Castor oil acts as a powerful stimulant laxative when taken before bedtime.
• Flax seeds - Flax seeds and flaxseed oil add fiber and healthy fat to loosen stool.
• Olive oil - Drinking a tablespoon of olive oil on an empty stomach lubricates the intestines.
• Magnesium supplements - Magnesium draws water into the colon to induce bowel movements.
• Exercise - Physical activity stimulates the digestive tract and alleviates constipation.

For best results, combine pear juice with other constipation remedies and lifestyle improvements. Also, be sure to stay very well hydrated when using natural laxatives to treat constipation.

Foods That Help Relieve and Prevent Constipation

Adjusting your diet can go a long way towards preventing and relieving constipation naturally. Along with drinking plenty of fluids and pear juice, emphasize eating more of these foods that get things moving:

1. Prunes

Prunes are one of the most popular natural home remedies for constipation. They contain lots of fiber, as well as sorbitol which has natural laxative effects. Prunes can be eaten on their own, mixed into Greek yogurt or made into a juice for constipation relief.

2. Beans

All types of beans are very high in fiber, making them excellent for preventing and treating constipation. Beans help add bulk and soften stool. Try eating more black, kidney, pinto and garbanzo beans.

3. Lentils

Much like beans, lentils are loaded with dietary fiber to support healthy bowel function. Opt for green, brown or red lentils, which can be added to soups, stews, salads, casseroles and more.

4. Figs

Dried and fresh figs both contain a lot of fiber, which stimulates bowel movements. Plus, dried figs contain sorbitol just like prunes and pears. Add figs to yogurt, oatmeal and salads.

5. Flax Seeds

Flax seeds naturally contain a mucilaginous fiber that helps stool retain water, making it bulkier and softer. Add ground flax to smoothies, oatmeal and baked goods.

6. Kefir

Kefir is a fermented milk beverage packed with probiotics to support gut health and digestion. Try making a fruit smoothie with kefir or drink a glass daily.

7. Sweet Potato

Fiber-rich sweet potatoes promote healthy bowel function. Steam them, add baked sweet potato to tacos or breakfast bowls, or blend into smoothies.

8. Artichoke

Artichokes are packed with inulin, a prebiotic fiber that feeds the good bacteria in your gut. Eat steamed, boiled or roasted artichoke hearts.

9. Chia Seeds

Just 1 ounce of chia seeds provides a whopping 11 grams of fiber. Sprinkle chia into smoothies, cereal and yogurt.

10. Pears

Pears offer a double-whammy for relieving constipation with their fiber, water and sorbitol content. Enjoy whole fresh pears or drink pear juice.

11. Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn provides a healthy, high-fiber snack. But go easy on the butter and salt.

12. Broccoli

In addition to fiber, broccoli contains sulforaphane, a phytochemical that may protect colon health. Enjoy steamed or roasted broccoli.

13. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is an underutilized constipation remedy. It contains fiber and anthraquinone, which stimulates bowel contractions. Try rhubarb compote.

14. Dark Chocolate

The flavonoids in cocoa have prebiotic properties that support intestinal health. Opt for at least 70% dark chocolate.

15. Olives

Green and black olives provide healthy monounsaturated fats that can help lubricate stools. Add olives to salads, pizzas and pastas.

16. Coconut Water

In addition to hydrating electrolytes, coconut water contains prebiotic fiber to feed your good gut bacteria. Drink plain coconut water.

17. Avocado

Nutrient-dense avocados offer substantial amounts of fiber per serving to combat constipation. Add avocado to smoothies or toast.

18. Apples

Apples contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Eat them whole or drink fresh apple juice.

19. Spinach

Raw spinach bolsters intestinal health with fiber, magnesium and vitamins A and C. Add spinach to salads and smoothies.

20. Quinoa

In addition to 8 grams of protein per cup, cooked quinoa provides 5 grams of fiber. Use quinoa in place of rice in recipes.

Foods to Limit or Avoid for Constipation Relief

Limiting or avoiding certain foods can also help prevent and relieve constipation in conjunction with eating fiber-rich foods. Try cutting back on these items:

1. Alcohol

Alcohol is dehydrating and slows motility in the colon. Limit alcoholic beverages like wine, beer and spirits.

2. Dairy Products

Dairy products like milk, cheese, cream and butter can cause constipation issues for some people. Limit them.

3. Red Meat

High-fat cuts of red meat take longer to move through the colon than other proteins. Eat in moderation.

4. Fried Food

Greasy, fried foods like french fries and fried chicken can grease up stools and exacerbate constipation.

5. Fast Food

Fast food burgers, nuggets, shakes and fries provide little dietary fiber and can promote constipation.

6. Persimmons

Persimmons contain tannins that can slow intestinal motility. Limit them if prone to constipation.

7. Bananas

Bananas are low in fiber and contain starch that can constipate some people. Eat in moderation.

8. White Bread

White bread is low in fiber and scrubbed of nutrients. Choose whole grain breads instead.

9. Sugar Alcohols

Sugar alcohols like xylitol, maltitol and mannitol can have a laxative effect if over-consumed.

10. Chocolate

Milk chocolate in particular can be constipating due to its fat, sugar and dairy content.

11. Egg Yolks

Egg yolk contains binding properties that can slow digestion. Stick to egg whites.

12. Rice

White rice and rice noodles provide very little fiber to keep food moving through the intestines.

13. Unripe Bananas

Unripe bananas are high in resistant starch, which can cause bloating and constipation issues.

14. Potatoes

Fried potatoes and potato chips are constipating. Prioritize potatoes with skin intact.

15. Pasta

Refined white pasta provides very little fiber. Opt for whole grain pasta varieties instead.

Other Constipation Prevention Tips

Aside from adjusting your diet, there are other lifestyle habits that prevent constipation and keep your digestive system regular, such as:

• Drink plenty of water and hydrating fluids like herbal tea.
• Exercise regularly to stimulate the bowels.
• Respond right away to the urge to have a bowel movement.
• Take a probiotic supplement to support healthy gut flora.
• Reduce stress via yoga, meditation, exercise, etc.
• Set aside time after breakfast to have a bowel movement.
• Never ignore the urge to poop – avoid holding it.
• Discuss adjusting any constipating medications with your doctor.
• Try gently massaging your abdomen in a clockwise motion.
• Use a squatty potty to get your body in an optimal pooping position.

Making lifestyle modifications can significantly improve constipation issues. Be sure to get enough fiber, fluid, exercise and listen to your body's urges.

When to See a Doctor for Constipation

Chronic constipation usually responds well to home remedies like pear juice, dietary changes, probiotics and exercise. However, you may need to see a doctor if:

• Home remedies don't improve your constipation after several weeks
• You experience fewer than 3 bowel movements per week
• You have very hard, dry or painful stools
• Constipation occurs alongside bleeding from the rectum
• You have abdominal pain and vomiting
• Your stools are consistently pencil-thin
• You have unexplained weight loss
• Constipation is significantly impacting your quality of life

See your doctor promptly if severe or persistent constipation occurs. They can perform tests to diagnose any underlying condition causing your chronic constipation, such as hypothyroidism, bowel obstruction, or neurological disorders. Prescription laxatives or medications may be warranted in some cases under a doctor’s care.

Conclusion

Drinking pear juice is an easy, safe and effective home remedy to relieve constipation thanks to its fiber, sorbitol and water content. Combining pear juice with other high fiber foods, natural laxatives and healthy lifestyle habits provides comprehensive constipation relief.

Adjust your diet by eating more foods

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.