11 Foods That Act As a Natural Laxatives

11 Foods That Act As a Natural Laxatives

While it may not be a topic fit for water cooler conversations, everyone has had some personal experience with constipation at one time or another. According an American Cancer Society study involving more than a million adults, Foods with natural laxative properties, on the other hand, tend to provide added nutrients with little or no side effects.

Best Foods That Act As a Natural Laxatives

1. Broccoli
All forms of broccoli are high in antioxidants that will benefit the digestive tract. However, broccoli sprouts tend to be more effective when it comes to getting things moving.

2. Legumes
Anyone who has a fed an infant legumes knows the results that often follow a heaping helping of beans, peas and lentils. In addition to helping with digestion, legumes are also high in fiber and protein and low in cholesterol.

3. Nuts and Raw Seeds
Just about any type of nuts and raw seeds are high in protein and fiber to help keep everything moving in the right direction. This can include almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and even seeds in oil form such as flax seed oil.

4. Bananas
For a sweet tasting way to promote efficient digestion, there’s nothing like a high fiber banana. A banana a day can restore electrolytes and encourage the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria.

5. Berries
High in antioxidants, berries can naturally clean the colon to encourage effective digestion without frustrating slow downs along the way. All types of berries, from blueberries to raspberries, will serve the same purpose.

6. Apples
In addition to a significant amount of protein, apples also provide bulk to encourage proper bowel movement. Pectin in apples also acts as a firming agent. Apple juice has similar benefits.

7. Beets
Beets, especially in raw form or in juice form, contain an enzyme that speeds up the exit process. Beets should, however, be consumed in moderation to avoid cramping.

8. Prunes
Well-known for their natural laxative properties, prunes achieve this goal through so-called super bacterias that work wonders in the digestive tract. All it takes is a few prunes a day to keep everything working smoothly.

9. Melons
All melons have a high water content that facilitates productive digestion with no stops along the way. In fact, a slice of water melon or cantaloupe will pass through the stomach and intestines rather quickly.

10. Aloe Vera
The many health benefits of aloe vera have been known to man for centuries. A combination of at least 75 identified nutrients, 18 amino acids, a dozen vitamins and a couple hundred active compounds makes aloe vera mixed with water or juice an effective digestive booster.

11. Tomatoes
Rich in vitamins A, C and K, tomatoes can fulfill about ten percent of the RDA of daily fiber intake, a plus for the digestive tract. Certain antioxidants in tomatoes have been shown to help prevent colon and prostate cancers.