Latest Shows & Articles

Subscriptions
  • Join our People's Pharmacy Page on Facebook
  • Follow JoeGraedon on Twitter
  • Follow Us
  • Free email newsletter

Print This Page

Can You Become Addicted to Prunes?

  • Currently 4.5/5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Not Helpful ..... Very Helpful
Was this information helpful? Average rating: 4.5/5 (69 votes)
What do you think? Click the stars to vote!
If you have more to say, post a comment below!

Q. My wife had vascular surgery for blocked arteries in both legs three months ago. She also had an aneurysm in her abdomen repaired. The doctor told her she probably would not have bowel movements for a while until her plumbing sorted itself back into proper position.

She had problems and tried laxatives that gave her an upset stomach or didn't work. She finally tried prune juice and it works, but a little too well. Getting the "dose" right has been a problem. Can she become addicted to prune juice?

A. Prune juice has been used for decades to combat constipation. Research suggests that prunes may also have heart benefits, since this fruit prevents oxidation of bad LDL cholesterol (Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, July, 2001).

Although it is possible to become dependent on stimulant laxatives, there is no evidence this is a problem with moderate prune consumption. To help your wife deal with the "dosing" issue and discover other natural remedies, we are sending you our Guides to Constipation and Digestive Disorders.

"Power Pudding" is a combination of prune juice, coarse bran and applesauce. For years, nurses have recommended taking one tablespoon of the mixture with a glass of water to alleviate constipation.

  • Currently 4.5/5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Not Helpful ..... Very Helpful
Was this information helpful? Average rating: 4.5/5 (69 votes)
What do you think? Click the stars to vote!
If you have more to say, post a comment below!

1 Comment

| Leave a comment

I have my husband eat five prunes every morning. I think this is better than prune juice because it is easier to determine how much to take. Prunes have the added benefit of fiber as well as the laxative power of prune juice.

Leave a comment

Share your comments or questions with the People's Pharmacy online community. Not all comments will be posted. Advice from other visitors to this web site should not be considered a substitute for appropriate medical attention. Concerns about medications should be discussed with a health professional. Do not stop any medication without first checking with your physician.

Check this box to be notified by email when follow-up comments are posted.