Experiencing constipation, especially if it’s chronic, can be quite a hassle. And we know that, more than anything.
When your bowel movements are in a shamble, it's common to turn towards store-bought laxatives, but in the long game, they only provide temporary relief and can upset your gut health more than they fix it.
On Gistive, we've preached about using natural laxatives from time to time, since they don't damage your gut, and are easily incorporated into your daily diet without doing a lot.
Plus, they're healthier and more effective than most laxatives out there, so you're winning in every situation.
On that note, the natural laxative we’re talking about today is pineapple. That might sound odd, but take it from the experts - drinking pineapple juice can do wonders for your constipation problem, and your overall digestive system.
In short, pineapple, or pineapple juice, greatly improves your bowel function since it’s high in dietary fiber, which adds bulk to your stool, and softens them to ease during nature’s call.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the depths of how and why pineapple is an effective remedy to ease up on your constipation, so make sure to read till the end, and find out more!
Table of Contents
Constipation - A Brief Overview
Everyone's got a story about the dreaded C-word: constipation. It's like a silent monster that lurks behind the scenes, waiting to pounce at the most inconvenient moments.
But why does it happen in the first place?
First off, let's just say that if you're having regular bowel movements--as in, at least once a day--you're already on the right track. But if you're going less than that, it might be due to a combination of factors: lack of fiber in your diet, dehydration, lack of exercise, or even certain medications.
When things start to slow down in your digestive system, the stool can become too hard and difficult to pass, leading to the dreaded sensation of being "backed up."
However, as dreadful as it is, getting rid of constipation can be quite easy, though we recommend visiting your local doctor if things are getting worse, as it’s always good to have a professional look at the underlying conditions that might be causing constipation.
Pineapple Juice and Gut Health - How Do They Intersect?
We all know that feeling of being bloated, uncomfortable, and unable to go to the bathroom. Constipation can put a damper on your day, but have no fear, pineapple juice is here! That's right, this tropical fruit can help relieve constipation.
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has been found to bring about healthy digestion, and aid in straightening out your bowel movements.
In addition to that, it also contains fiber, which adds bulk to your stool and makes it easier to pass. Not to mention, pineapple juice is a delicious and refreshing way to hydrate and get your daily dose of vitamin C.
Does Pineapple Make You Poop?
Yes, pineapple does make you poop, as we’ve mentioned in the previous section.
But to make it more detailed and invasive, let’s dive into the specifics.
According to the Department of Agriculture (USA), a single glass of pineapple juice gives you about 0.5 grams of fiber, and since it’s coming from a fruit, there’s loads of water content in it, which helps ease up your constipation.
In addition to bromelain which helps against disorders like IBS, pineapple is rich in flavonoids and carotene, both of which are antioxidants. This allows pineapple to improve bowel function, and remove ailments like bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, IBD, and more.
How Much Pineapple Juice Should You Be Drinking?
We've uplifted pineapple's reputation when it comes to relieving constipation and for all the right reasons. Now it's time to answer another question that people often have, and it's how much pineapple juice should you be drinking daily to counter your constipation problem.
Pineapple, like every other healthy food, should be eaten in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to problems, which we’ve discussed in the next section of this blog.
So, how much should you drink? Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer as it depends on your body’s tolerance levels. As a general rule of thumb, start with a small glass of 4–6 ounces and gradually increase the amount to up to 8 ounces if your symptoms don’t improve. Remember, moderation is key!
What Happens If You Drink Too Much Pineapple Juice?
Great bowel movements, a lot of health benefits, and the cure to constipation - Pineapple juice is great for a lot of things. However, if you’re excessively consuming this natural laxative in the hopes of speeding up the curing process, it might do more harm than good.
If you drink pineapple juice a little too much, it could also lead to some not-so-great outcomes when it comes to digestion. Pineapple juice has a lot of fiber and can help relieve constipation, but if you drink too much of it, it can also bring on diarrhea.
Why? Well, the high levels of enzymes in pineapple juice can act as a laxative, so consuming large amounts can quickly lead to loose bowel movements.
So, as with many things in life, moderation is key when it comes to fresh pineapple juice. Enjoy it in moderation, and you'll be able to reap all the benefits it has to offer, without having to make countless trips to the bathroom.
Alternatives To Pineapple Juice
Pineapple juice is great when it comes to getting rid of constipation and other pooping problems, but that's not the only cure for this digestive ailment.
In truth, there are a lot of fruits, natural laxatives, juices, and supplements that can help cater to this problem, and if you haven't checked it out already, we made an extensive guide on the best foods that will make you poop immediately.
That being said, here are a few foods and supplements that have the same, or improved, effect on your digestive problems.
Probiotic Supplements
Constipation is a common problem that affects millions of people every year. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to alleviate the symptoms of this troublesome condition - including taking probiotic supplements.
These supplements are packed with beneficial bacteria that can help to regulate your digestive system and keep things moving along smoothly.
By adding more probiotics to your diet, you're essentially creating a healthier, more robust microbiome that can better handle constipation and other digestive issues.
Whether you're dealing with mild discomfort or more serious constipation, probiotics are worth considering as a potential solution.
Check out our IBSupport supplement, which has been certified and proven to work against problems like IBS, constipation, and more.
Orange Juice
Orange juice may be a breakfast staple, but did you know that it could also be your secret weapon against constipation?
That's right – this tasty drink is loaded with fiber, which plays a key role in keeping your digestive system healthy and regular. Fiber helps to add bulk to your stool, making it easier to pass when you go to the bathroom.
And with a glass of orange juice containing as much as 3 grams of fiber, it's an easy and delicious way to boost your daily intake. So next time you're feeling a bit backed up, why not reach for a glass of orange juice? Your digestive system will thank you for it!
Prune Juice
Prunes have largely been connected with removing digestive ailments, and bringing bowel regularity so you don't get backed up now and then.
Prunes are already known to help regulate digestion, but the juice form makes it even easier to enjoy the benefits. What makes prune juice so effective is its high level of sorbitol, a natural sugar that has a laxative effect on the body.
This gentle stimulation of the bowels can relieve constipation without causing discomfort or negative side effects. So next time you're struggling with constipation, consider pouring yourself a glass of this sweet solution. Cheers to a smoother, more comfortable digestive system!
Apple Juice
That's right – apple juice contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help get things moving in your digestive system.
The soluble fiber helps to soften stool and make it easier to pass, while the insoluble fiber adds bulk and helps to speed up the whole process.
Plus, the natural sugars found in apple juice can act as a mild laxative. We’ve also made an extensive guide as to how apple juice aids in enriching your gut health, so make sure to check that out as well!
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that if you're battling constipation and bloating daily, skipping the store-bought laxatives and hopping onto natural laxatives like pineapple juice might be the turning point for you. It's high in fiber, digestion and anti-inflammatory enzymes, and antioxidants that hit all the right spots.
Though, like always, we recommend checking in with your doctor, especially if you have chronic constipation or the kind of constipation that arises as a result of some serious underlying health condition.
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