Yes, constipation can cause urinary problems, in fact, it can cause real havoc in your pelvic floor. It can make you leak and run to the toilet more, worsen any prolapse* and trigger Urinary Tract Infections. Then when the dry and huge backed up poop is ready to finally make an exit it stresses and weakens tissues, muscles, and ligaments on its way out.

You are officially constipated if you have less than three bowel movements a week or have difficulty passing a poop.

As well as increasing fibre and fluid intake and engaging in physical activity these five regularity-boosting, yummy, cheap, and easy to eat fruits can help your bowels moving.

5 Fruits that Help You Poop

Apples

“An apple a day” is still golden advice for general health but they’re also great to keep the bowels moving. They are not only a good source of fibre, but they also contain a type of fibre called pectin, which is known for its laxative effect.

Kiwifruit

Kiwifruit is especially high in fibre, which makes it an excellent food to help promote regularity. A couple a day may reduce constipation symptoms and due to an enzyme called actinidine, they can enhance digestion. As a bonus kiwifruit is unlikely to cause you any bloating and give you a healthy dose of Vitamin C.

Pears

Pears can help to ease constipation in different ways. They are one of the most fibrous fruits and they are naturally high in sorbitol – a natural sugar alcohol which can help increase the water content and frequency of bowel movements. They’re also bursting with antioxidants, potassium, and vitamins.

Figs

Figs can be a natural remedy for constipation as eating them is a terrific way to get more fibre into your system. In fact, dry figs can deliver a concentrated dose.

A study found that fig paste helps to speed intestinal transit time, improve stool consistency, and alleviate abdominal discomfort. Figs are also a rich source of minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and copper and a good source of antioxidants.

You can grab fresh figs in Australia from late summer to mid-Autumn.

Berries

Berries are considered superfoods. They are not only delightful and flavoursome to eat but they are also highly nutritious and, you guessed it, can relieve constipation due to their high fibre and water content.
So, grab a couple of handfuls of berries every day when you’re experiencing constipation.

Final words…

Constipation is common and impacts most people at some point in their lives. It can make you feel uncomfortable, bloaty and can irritate your nervous system and pelvic floor. So, giving yourself the eating pleasure of these delicious stool consistency and frequency improving fruits can make you feel better in more than one way.

It’s best to seek professional help if standard constipation recommendations are not bringing you relief.

* Prolapse: Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition involving the vaginal descent of one or more pelvic organs, most frequently involving the bladder, uterus, and rectum.