Constipation is a common and uncomfortable digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stool. While there are numerous treatments available on the market, some of them may not be effective or may come with unwanted side effects. These prune balls for constipation are delicious and effective for relieving discomfort. They are soft and chewy snacks made from dried and mashed prunes, which are high in fiber and other nutrients that promote bowel movement and alleviate constipation.
Constipation can be quite uncomfortable and irritating, causing a lot of discomfort for those experiencing it. Sometimes, laxatives and prescription drugs might not always be a viable option. Luckily, there are so many home remedies available that can be highly effective. With these and many more home remedies for constipation, you can say goodbye to discomfort and hello to regular bowel movements.
What Causes Constipation?
Before discussing home remedies and solutions for constipation, it’s important to understand what causes this condition. Some common causes of constipation include:
- Dietary Factors: Low fiber intake, inadequate water consumption, and high consumption of dairy or processed foods can contribute to constipation. Fiber helps to add bulk and softness to stool, making it easier to pass through the intestines. Water is also crucial for keeping stools soft and preventing dehydration in the colon.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps to stimulate intestinal muscles and promotes bowel movements. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to constipation as the lack of physical activity slows down digestion and bowel movements.
- Medication and Medical Conditions: Certain medications, such as opioids, and conditions like underactive thyroid and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can lead to constipation. It is important to speak with a doctor if constipation persists, as it could be a symptom of an underlying medical issue.
- Hormonal changes: Hormone imbalances in women, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can affect digestion and lead to constipation. These changes can also disrupt the natural rhythms of the digestive system.
- Stress: Chronic stress and anxiety can affect the digestive system and lead to constipation. The body’s natural response to stress is to slow down digestion in order to conserve energy. This can result in slower bowel movements and harder stools.
- Age: As we age, our metabolism slows down and the muscles in the digestive tract can become weaker. This can cause constipation, especially in older adults who are less physically active.
Understanding your own triggers is the first step in taking control of your bowel health.
Easy Energy Ball Recipes
In addition to prune balls, there are several easy energy ball recipes that not only satisfy hunger but also help in combating constipation. These energy balls often include nutritious ingredients like oats, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and almonds that are rich in fiber, essential healthy fats, and proteins, aiding in digestion and providing a slow release of energy.
- Crunchy No Bake Energy Bites Recipe
- Moroccan Sellou Granola Bar
- Date Protein Balls
- 4 Ingredient Energy Oatmeal Balls
Prunes for Constipation
Prunes, or dried plums, are often hailed for their natural laxative effects. Rich in fiber, sorbitol, and phenolic compounds, prunes can soften stool and encourage bowel movements. Combine them with the benefits of other digestion-friendly ingredients of chia seeds, cocoa powder and walnuts, and you have a prune ball – a powerful little bite-sized solution to constipation and better gut health.
Health Benefits of Prunes
- Natural Laxative Effects: Prunes contain a high amount of dietary fiber, which adds bulk and softens stool, aiding in more comfortable bowel movements.
- Nutrient-Rich Profile: Prunes are high in potassium, vitamin K, and antioxidants, offering a range of health benefits beyond constipation relief.
- Easy on the Stomach: Unlike harsh over-the-counter laxatives, prune balls provide a gentle solution with minimal side effects.
- High in Vitamin K: Prunes are an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in bone health by aiding in the absorption of calcium and promoting bone density.
- Contain Potassium: Prunes are also rich in potassium, an essential mineral for bone health and preventing bone loss. Potassium plays a role in regulating calcium levels in the body and helps prevent the loss of calcium through urine.
Enjoy one or two prune ball energy bites a day to start. Eating too many prune balls in one sitting can lead to overconsumption of calories and fiber, which might have the reverse effect and cause bloating or gas.
Consume your prune energy balls with a glass of water before breakfast or mid-morning. They are a perfect snack to give your bowel a gentle nudge first thing in the morning.
I love adding chia seeds to many recipes including energy bites, oatmeal cookies for constipation and baked oats! Chia seeds are tiny, black seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant. They are high in fiber and contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to relieve constipation by promoting healthy bowel movements.
If you would like to add a bit more flavor and healthy ingredients, add a tablespoon or two of almond butter to the food processor.
Make sure to store these healthy snacks in an airtight container. These prune power balls have amazing health benefits with no added sugar. For some fun variations on this healthy snack recipe, try adding coconut oil, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter or almond butter, flax seeds, protein powder, or vanilla extract to the recipe.
Prune Balls for Constipation Recipe
Try these delicious and healthy prune balls recipe to help alleviate constipation. Made with natural ingredients, they are the perfect snack to keep you feeling energized and regular.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 Cup Prunes, soaked in warm water
- 1 Cup Walnuts
- 1/4 Cup Chocolate Baking Powder
- 1/4 Cup Chia Seeds
- 1 Tablespoon Honey
Instructions
- Soak the prunes in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
- Drain prunes and add to food processor with the other ingredients and blend until mixed thoroughly.
- Using a cookie scoop, form into balls.