Constipation is usually a result of an unhealthy lifestyle, like consuming over-processed foods, having a low fiber diet, lack of physical activity, and inadequate water intake. Certain medications or conditions like IBS, hypothyroidism, and pregnancy can trigger constipation. Even then, there is a percentage of people who have the right diet and none of the listed conditions, and still suffer from constipation or irregular bowel habits.
How These Drinks Work:
These natural drinks help relieve constipation by improving digestion, softening stools, stimulating bowel movement, and detoxifying the body. Nutrients like magnesium, fiber, and natural acids play a key role in regulating gut health
Here are some natural drinks that you may resort to, if constipation threatens to strangle your days:
1 . Jaggery (gur) Drink
Our favorite desi ‘sweetener’ works wonders in curing both chronic and occasional occurrences of constipation. Mix a tablespoon of jaggery in a glass of warm water and gulp it down before going to bed. The high magnesium content of jaggery will ensure that your bowel movement is smooth and unhindered the following morning.
How it Works: Magnesium in jaggery draws water into the intestines, softening stools and reducing straining during bowel movements. It also stimulates digestive enzymes, aiding overall digestion.
Nutritional Benefits: A tablespoon of jaggery contains approximately 10-15 mg of magnesium, along with iron and potassium, which also help improve gut function and energy levels.
Precautions: Individuals with diabetes should avoid or limit jaggery intake due to its high sugar content.
2 . Lemon Juice
Before you head to the washroom, drink a glass of water infused with lemon juice. It is a stimulant for your digestive system, prompting the body to eliminate toxins in various forms.
How it Works: Drinking lemon water increases acidity in the stomach, which triggers digestive juices to act more efficiently, promoting bowel movements. It also supports liver detoxification, helping to flush out waste products more effectively.
Dosage & Timing: A glass of water infused with the juice of half a lemon is best consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. This activates the digestive system for the day ahead.
Nutritional Benefits: One lemon provides about 30-40 mg of vitamin C, antioxidants, and small amounts of potassium, all of which support overall digestive health.
Precautions: People with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs may need to dilute lemon juice more heavily with water to avoid discomfort.
3 . Apple Juice
Dietary fiber has a major role in facilitating bowel movement through your gut. Apple juice is a rich source of dietary fiber, and sipping the cold-pressed variety of it throughout the day will ensure that constipation never bothers you.
How it Works: The fiber in apple juice absorbs water and softens stools, while its natural sugars, like sorbitol, draw water into the intestine, easing stool passage. Sipping apple juice throughout the day can prevent constipation and maintain regularity.
Dosage & Timing: Consume 1 glass of cold-pressed, unsweetened apple juice throughout the day for best results.
Nutritional Benefits: One glass contains about 203 grams of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. These nutrients support digestion and overall gut health.
Precaution: Avoid heavily processed or sweetened apple juice, which can worsen constipation or add unnecessary sugars.
4 . Baking Soda With Water
This is a home-made remedy for many an ailment, especially those related to your stomach. Mix a teaspoonful of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it before bed. It will relieve gas and acidity, soften stool, and ease its passage out of your body.
How it Works: Baking soda reacts with stomach acid to produce carbon dioxide, which helps relieve bloating and stimulates bowel movements. IT also alkalizes the digestive system, balancing pH and easing discomfort.
Dosage & Timings: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it before bedtime. This promotes smooth digestion and easy stool passage overnight.
Precaution: Do not exceed the recommended doseas excess baking soda can cause electrolyte imbalance, high sodium levels, or stomach irritation. Avoid in cases of kidney disease or hypertension
5. Castor Oil
Castor oil is a potent natural laxative derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It promotes normal bowel movement by stimulating the intestines to contract.
How it Works: The ricinoleic acid in castor oil binds to the intestinal walls, promoting peristalsis (intestinal contractions) and softening stool. This makes it effective for chronic constipation as well as occasional cases.
Dosage & Timing: Take 2 teaspoons of castor oil before bedtime. You can expect relief the following morning.
Nutritional Benefits: While primarily used for its laxative properties, castor oil also contains triglycerides that lubricate the intestines.
Precautions: Castor oil is not recommended for children, pregnant women, or people with digestive disorders. Use it sparingly, as overuse can lead to dehydration and cramps.
6. Triphala Drink
Triphala, an Ayurvedic remedy, consists of three fruits: Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. It has been used for centuries to treat digestive issues, including constipation, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
How it Works: Triphala acts as a mild laxative by stimulating the digestive system and enhancing bowel movement. It also supports gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
Dosage & Timing: Mix 2 teaspoons of triphala powder in a glass of water and drink it on an empty stomach every morning.
Nutritional Benefits: Triphala is rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and antioxidants, which reduce inflammation, improve gut flora, and strengthen overall immunity.
Precautions: It may cause mild cramping initially, so start with smaller doses if you have a sensitive stomach.
This table provides a practical, step-by-step guide that readers can follow easily without reading the full text.
Lifestyle Tips for Constipation
While these drinks are helpful, combining them with healthy habits makes them far more effective:
- Hydrate Adequately: Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to keep stool soft and digestion smooth.
- Eat Fiber-Rich Foods: Include vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains in your meals.
- Stay Physically Active: Regular junk food, refined carbs, and excessive dairy can worsen constipation.
- Establish a Routine: Try to use the washroom at the same time daily to train your digestive system.
Conclusion
Constipation is often uncomfortable but manageable with simple lifestyle changes and natural remedies. Incorporating drinks like jaggery water, lemon juice, apple juice, baking soda water, castor oil, and triphala into your routine can promote bowel regularity, improve digestion, and prevent bloating or discomfort.
Combined with hydration, fiber-rich foods, and exercise, these natural solutions can help you maintain a healthy digestive system and an appier, more energetic day.
Remember: If constipation persists for more than a few weeks, it is important to consult a healthcare professional, as it could indicate an underlying condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How quickly do these drinks relieve constipation?
Mild remedies like lemon water or apple juice may help within a few hours to a day, while stronger options like castor oil often work overnight. Results vary depending on severity and individual digestion.
2. Can I combine multiple remedies in a day?
Yes, but in moderation. For example, lemon water in the morning and apple juice during the day are safe. Avoid overusing strong laxatives like castor oil or baking soda.
3. Are these drinks safe for children or pregnant women?
Some, like castor oil and baking soda, are not recommended. Safe options include lemon water, apple juice, and triphala (with medical advice).
4. How often should I consume these remedies?
Mild drinks like jaggery water, lemon water, or apple juice can be taken daily if needed. Stronger remedies like castor oil or triphala should be used occasionally and as per recommended doses.
5. Can these drinks replace medical treatment for chronic constipation?
No. If constipation persists for weeks or comes with severe symptoms like blood in stool or abdominal pain, consult a healthcare professional. These drinks are supportive remedies, not replacements for medical care.