Constipation is a condition in which you have infrequent bowel movements that might also be difficult to pass. Symptoms of constipation include less than three bowel movements a week, sensation of rectal blockage and hard stools. You can improve acute constipation by adding high fiber foods, such as prunes -- which are dried plums -- to your diet. A serving of 100 g of prunes provides 7 of the 20 to 25 g RDA of fiber.
Step 1
Add four prunes to a breakfast serving of oatmeal or cereal. In addition to adding fiber to your diet, the prunes will act as a natural sweetener, reducing the need to add sugar.
Step 2
Pack prunes to your lunch bag or keep a serving in your office drawer for a convenient snack.
Step 3
Add 1/2 cup of pitted prunes to your favorite muffin or cake batters for sweetness, as well as a convenient source of extra fiber.
Step 4
Saute 1/2 cup of prunes with olive oil, onion and apple slices as a tasty side dish to chicken or pork.
Step 5
Add one or two chopped, pitted prunes to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or as a bagel spread.
Tips and Warnings
- Try purchasing French D'Agen prunes, which have a tastier, more exotic flavor than other varieties.
References
- "1801 Home Remedies"; Reader's Digest Editors; 2004
- California Dried Plums: Cooking with California Dried Plums and Prunes
- Mayo Clinic: Constipation
- "Wise Words and Country Ways"; Ruth Binney; 2004
