Q. I suffer from constipation. I have never had a bowel movement without a laxative. Needless to say, I have taken just about all the medications on the market at one time or another for relief.
I have found that eating cashews or peanuts alleviates my constipation. What is in nuts that would cause this miracle?
A. We have no idea why peanuts or cashews would help against constipation, but this seems like a benign treatment for a common problem. Perhaps others will let us know if it works for them.
Other readers have found a variety of ways to ease constipation. Some are fairly mainstream, while others, like yours, are a bit idiosyncratic. Here are a few examples:
JFR said: “I was given harsh laxatives when I was a child and this has caused me problems into adult years. Here are some the things that have worked for me.
“Magnesium oxide, try 200 mg, if this doesn’t work, try 400 mg
or take 500 mg Vitamin C daily.“Metamucil – a teaspoon in a cup of water: stir and drink quickly. Do this EVERY DAY. “Smooth” Metamucil is kinder. “Orange” tastes better.
“Slow way down on carbs and sugar.
“Eat oranges and apples
“Don’t eat coconut
Fran reported: “My nurse daughter recommended 1/4 cup Bran Buds every morning. This has been perfect for me to avoid constipation and it is delicious when I blend it with multi-grain Cheerios.”
PP added: “A nurse suggested drinking successive glasses /cups of hot and cold water. Also, papaya and mangoes are great for this problem.”
There are many other suggestions in our Guide to Constipation.
