Do nuts cause constipation?

Nuts are fruits composed of an inedible hard shell and a seed, which is generally edible. In general usage, a wide variety of dried seeds are called nuts including almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, cashews, and peanuts.

Nuts constipation

Nuts are great sources of plant-based protein, good fats, and fiber. They are well known for protective effect on the heart. The American Heart Association recommends eating about four servings of unsalted nuts a week.

Some people think that nuts can cause constipation and other gut problems such as irritable bowel and diverticulitis. Nuts contain a good amount of dietary fiber.

A high fiber diet is good for the gut and helps relieve constipation. Then what is the problem with nuts?

Nuts contain a good amount of dietary fiber. A high fiber diet is good for the gut and helps relieve constipation. Then what is the problem with nuts?

Nuts don’t cause constipation if you eat them correctly.

Nuts are hard to digest if you don’t chew them completely. Undigested bits and pieces of the nuts can clog the bowel and cause problems. Drinking not enough water can make the problems worse.

So, it is recommended to chew the nuts completely before swallowing and drink plenty of water after that.

Like other plant foods, nuts provide a wide range of nutrients, including large quantities of healthy fats, and moderate amounts of protein and dietary fiber.

They also provide a wide range of essential nutrients, including several B group vitamins, folate, vitamin E, minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidant minerals.

Nuts are a healthy food, don’t avoid them in your diet due to the fear of constipation.

Relive constipation with Metamucil.

Metamucil image

Metamucil is a fiber supplement commonly used for reliving constipation. The active ingredient of Metamucil is Psyllium husk. Psyllium is a type of soluble fiber taken from the plant known as Plantago ovata.

Psyllium is used as a bulk laxative, an agent that has laxative effects by increasing fecal bulk. It is a gentler laxative compared to chemical agents such as senna. This bulking action occurs due to absorption of water by the psyllium fibers in the colon. It makes the stools soft and easily passable. It usually takes between 24 and 72 hours to start feeling the full effects of Metamucil.

Unlike other sources of dietary fiber, psyllium appears to be more effective at forming feces and appears to be one of the few fiber sources not associated with excessive flatulence.

In addition to relieving constipation, psyllium appears to be able to reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in persons with high cholesterol.

Metamucil is available as powder in different flavours such as orange, apple and chocolate. Sugar free formula also available on the market.

Metamucil can be used for occasional constipation and to promote and maintain bowel regularity. If your constipation persists for more than a week, consult your healthcare provider because it may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Metamucil powder must be mixed with water before you take it. Do not swallow the dry powder. Mix the powder with at least a full glass of water or fruit juice. Stir and drink this mixture right away. To get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away. Drink plenty of fluids each day to help improve bowel regularity.