Let’s be real – constipation is one of those awkward, uncomfortable issues that no one really wants to talk about. But the truth is, it affects millions of people, and it’s nothing to be ashamed about. But, do you know there are plenty of natural, healthy ways to get your digestive system back on track? These amazing drinks can help stimulate bowel movements and have you feeling light, and refreshed.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Ew, laxatives? No thanks!” But trust me, these drinks are nothing like those harsh, unpleasant medications. In fact, many of them are quite delicious. So if you’re tired of straining, struggling, and feeling bloated, give some of these a try. Your digestive system will thank you!
14 Healthy Drinks That Make You Poop Immediately
1. Creamy, Comforting Kefir
Kefir is like the cultured cousin of yogurt – it’s packed with probiotics that can work wonders for your gut. According to a study, the live active cultures in kefir can help improve overall digestive function and relieve constipation.
The lactic acid in kefir’s probiotics can actually stimulate the intestines to contract and move waste through more efficiently. Plus, the smooth, slightly tangy flavor of kefir can be incredibly soothing for an irritated digestive tract.
How to Include: You can enjoy a 4-8 ounce serving on its own, blended into a smoothie with fruits and veggies, or used as a base for dips and dressings. You can even swap it in for milk in your favorite baked goods. Start with smaller amounts and gradually increase if needed.
2. Soothing Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera isn’t just for sunburns – it also has amazing laxative properties thanks to its natural compounds like anthraquinones and glycosides. A review found that aloe vera can help stimulate bowel movements and provide gentle relief from constipation. Plus, The polysaccharides in aloe may also have a soothing effect on the digestive tract.
How to Include: Mix 2-4 ounces of pure, unprocessed aloe vera juice into water, juice, or a smoothie once or twice daily. If you prefer, you can also find aloe vera supplements in liquid or capsule form.
When choosing an aloe product, look for one that is 100% pure, without any added sugars or preservatives. Start with the lowest recommended dose and gradually increase as needed.
3. Earthy, Gentle Senna Tea
Senna is an age-old herbal remedy that’s been used for centuries as a gentle laxative. A study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology showed that the active compounds in senna leaves and pods are known as sennosides. It can help relax intestinal muscles and stimulate contractions, making it easy.
Note that Senna tea has a slightly bitter, earthy taste, but you can sweeten it with honey or add lemon for a more palatable flavor.
How to Include: Brew a cup of senna tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried senna leaves in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Drink the tea in the morning or afternoon, and adjust the serving size based on your individual needs and sensitivity.
Start with a single cup per day and monitor your response, as senna can have a strong effect on some people. Senna should not be used long-term without consulting a healthcare provider.
4. Mineral-Rich Magnesium Water
Magnesium is a superstar nutrient when it comes to constipation relief. According to a study, magnesium acts as a natural osmotic laxative, drawing water into your intestines and softening things up. This can help stimulate peristalsis, the wave-like contractions that move waste through your digestive tract.
How to Include: Swap out your regular drinking water for magnesium-rich mineral water, or add a magnesium supplement to your water throughout the day.
Look for mineral waters that contain at least 100-200mg of magnesium per serving. You can start with smaller doses and gradually increase until you achieve the desired bowel-stimulating effect.
5. Fiber-Fueled Psyllium Husk Drink
Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber that expands in your gut, adding bulk to stool and helping it move through more easily. A review found that psyllium can be an effective, gentle laxative for relieving constipation. The fiber helps absorb excess water in the intestines, softening stool and making it easier to pass.
How to Include: Stir 1-2 tablespoons of psyllium husk powder into a glass of water, juice, or your favorite smoothie. Drink the mixture immediately, as psyllium can thicken quickly.
Start with the lower end of the recommended serving and work your way up as needed. Make sure to increase your water intake as well. This will help prevent any potential side effects like gas or bloating.
6. Warming, Stimulating Ginger Tea
Ginger has amazing anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe an upset digestive system. According to a study, the active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, may also help stimulate intestinal contractions. The spicy, invigorating flavor of ginger tea can also help relax your intestinal muscles and get things flowing.
How to Include: You can brew a cup of ginger tea by steeping fresh grated ginger or dried ginger powder in hot water for 5-7 minutes. You can also add a slice of lemon for an extra digestive boost.
Drink the tea 1-2 times per day, preferably with meals, to help support healthy digestion and regularity. Start with smaller servings and adjust as needed based on your individual response.
7. Refreshing Peppermint Tea
Like ginger, peppermint has that calming, relaxing effect on your gut. A review found that the menthol in peppermint can help stimulate intestinal muscles and increase bile flow, promoting regular bowel movements.
Plus, Peppermint tea is a refreshing, caffeine-free option. It may also help soothe any discomfort or cramping associated with constipation.
How to Include: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 5-7 minutes to make a soothing peppermint tea. Drink the tea 1-2 times per day, either on its own or with a bit of honey added for a touch of sweetness. You can also find peppermint tea bags at most grocery stores for a convenient option.
8. Ayurvedic Triphala Tea
Triphala is an ancient Ayurvedic herbal blend made from three different fruits – and it happens to be a natural laxative powerhouse. According to a study, the compounds in Triphala, like chebulinic acid and gallic acid, can help soften stool and stimulate bowel movements.
Triphala tea has a slightly bitter, astringent flavor. So you may want to add a touch of honey or a squeeze of lemon to balance the taste.
How to Include: Brew a cup of Triphala tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of the dried herbal blend in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Drink the tea once or twice per day, either in the morning or before bed.
9. Gut-Friendly Kombucha
This fermented tea is brimming with probiotics that can help restore balance to your digestive system. A review found that the carbonation in kombucha may also have a mild laxative effect, giving your intestines a gentle nudge. Try to look for plain, unsweetened varieties to maximize the gut-healing benefits.
How to Include: You can drink 8-12 ounces per day, either on its own or mixed with water or juice. You can also experiment with flavored kombuchas that incorporate gut-friendly ingredients like ginger or turmeric.
Start with smaller servings and gradually increase as your body adjusts. Kombucha can be found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores and natural food markets.
10. Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic
Apple cider vinegar is like a digestive superhero – a study found that the acetic acid can stimulate stomach acid production and bile flow. The pectin in ACV may also have a mild laxative effect.
How to Include: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar into a glass of water, juice, or tea. You can also add a bit of honey or lemon for flavor. Drink this tonic 1-2 times per day, preferably with meals, to help support healthy digestion and regularity.
11. Probiotic-Rich Beet Kvass
Beet kvass is a fermented beet drink that’s loaded with gut-friendly probiotics. A study in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that the betalains in beets may also have a mild laxative effect.
It can help to move things along by stimulating bile production and peristalsis. Note that the tangy, earthy flavor of beet kvass can be an acquired taste, but it’s worth trying for its digestive benefits.
How to Include: Start with a small 4-6 ounce serving of beet kvass per day, either on its own or diluted with water. You can gradually increase the serving size as your body adjusts. Beet kvass can be found at many natural food stores or made at home with a simple fermentation process.
12. The Ol’ Reliable: Coffee
Look, I know coffee isn’t the healthiest option, but for many people, a cup of joe can provide pretty reliable constipation relief.
According to a review in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, the caffeine in coffee acts as a stimulant. it can trigger contractions in your intestines and that oh-so-necessary urge to go. Plus, Coffee may also stimulate the release of gastrin, a hormone that can increase digestive activity.
How to Include: Enjoy a moderate 8-12 ounce cup of coffee in the morning to help stimulate your bowels. Avoid drinking coffee on an empty stomach, as this can further irritate the digestive system. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day as well, as coffee can have a dehydrating effect.
13. Legendary Prune Juice
Prunes are pretty much synonymous with digestive health – and for good reason. A study found that the high fiber and sorbitol content in prunes can help soften stool and stimulate bowel movements. Prunes also contain phenolic compounds that may have a mild stimulant effect on the intestines.
How to Include: You can drink a small 4-6-ounce glass of prune juice once or twice per day, either on its own or mixed with water or other fruit juices to dilute the flavor. Start with the lower end of the serving and monitor your response, gradually increasing the amount.
14. Dandelion Tea
The bitter compounds in dandelion roots and leaves can stimulate bile production and digestive enzymes, supporting overall bowel function.
According to a study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, dandelion tea also has a mild diuretic effect. This may further aid in waste elimination by flushing out the digestive system. Plus, The high inulin content in dandelion can also act as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
How to Include: Brew a cup of dandelion tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried dandelion root or leaf in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Drink the tea 1-2 times per day, either on its own or with a touch of honey or lemon added for flavor. You can also find dandelion tea bags at many natural food stores for a convenient option.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
It’s important to note that while these drinks offer natural constipation relief, they can also come with some potential side effects and risks, especially if consumed in excess or by people with certain medical conditions.
Kefir, aloe vera juice, senna tea, magnesium water, and psyllium husk drinks may cause side effects like gas, bloating, diarrhea, or electrolyte imbalances if consumed in excess. This is especially for those with certain medical conditions.
Senna and aloe vera should be used with caution long-term, and people with diabetes, kidney disorders, or gastrointestinal issues may need to avoid or limit these remedies. It’s important to start with small servings, stay hydrated, and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Plus, Coffee, prune juice, and dandelion tea are generally well-tolerated, but the stimulant and diuretic effects can lead to dehydration if not balanced with adequate water intake. Beet kvass and apple cider vinegar are also quite safe for most people but may cause minor digestive discomfort for some.
Remember, everyone’s digestive system is unique, so you may need to experiment a bit to find the drinks that work best for you.
You should start slow, pay attention to how your body reacts, and don’t be afraid to mix and match different options. And if constipation persists or gets worse, consult a healthcare professional.
Other Tips To Make You Poop Immediately
In addition to these gut-healing drinks, there are a few other natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help get your bowels moving more efficiently:
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can stimulate the intestines and promote regular bowel movements.
- Increase your water intake: Staying hydrated helps soften stool and prevents constipation.
- Add more fiber-rich foods: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can all help add bulk to your stool.
- Try abdominal massage: Gently massaging your belly in a clockwise motion can help stimulate peristalsis.
- Practice stress management: Chronic stress can disrupt your gut-brain axis and contribute to constipation.
- Establish a consistent bathroom routine: Going at the same time each day can help train your body.
FAQs
1. How long does it typically take for these drinks to start working?
The time it takes to see results can vary depending on the individual and the specific drink. Some, like coffee, may provide relatively quick relief, while others like psyllium husk or probiotic-rich beverages may take a few days to a week to fully take effect. Be patient, listen to your body, and adjust serving sizes as needed.
2. Can I combine multiple constipation-relieving drinks?
Yes, you can experiment with combining different drinks to find what works best for you. Just be mindful of potential interactions or compounded side effects, especially when it comes to stimulant laxatives like senna or caffeine. It’s generally recommended to start with one new drink at a time and gradually introduce others.
3. Are there any foods I should avoid when dealing with constipation?
Foods that can contribute to or worsen constipation include dairy products, red meat, fried/fatty foods, and refined carbs like white bread or pasta. Try to focus on high-fiber, hydrating foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
