Regular bowel movement is popularly considered a sign of good health and is widely associated with feeling fresh. While people often have a routine, not everyone can get to it naturally. Taking the help of stimulants is not an issue, unless one gets hooked on things like cigarettes.
To help out, Dr Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist trained in AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities, took to Instagram on June 24 and shared a list of five natural drinks that help one go naturally.
1. Chia fresca
This may sound fancy, but chia fresca is an all-natural energy drink that is excellent for gut and overall health. Dr Sethi shared the recipe, stating, “It’s made with one spoon of chia seeds, a glass of water, cucumber slices, and mint. Let it soak for about 10 to 15 minutes and add a squeeze of lemon at the end to get your gut moving.”
2. Fruit juices with sorbitol
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that is naturally found in fruits such as prunes, pears, and apples. It is also an osmotic laxative that provides relief in case of occasional constipation. According to Dr Sethi, fruit juices containing sorbitol are an excellent supplement to stimulate bowel movement. “You can take them as a shot,” he noted. “Use fresh fruit juices without added sugar.”
3. Herbal teas
A cup of warm tea has long been used in desi households as a stimulant, and it has the approval of Dr Sethi. This is because “warm water stimulates bowel movements,” explained the gastroenterologist. He also suggested drinking tea that contains senna, an over-the-counter laxative, to help with the process, but cautioned to do so only for a short term.
4. Kefir berries smoothies
Kefir is a fermented milk drink rich in probiotics that is excellent for gut health in itself. When turned into a smoothie with berries rich in antioxidants, it becomes a nutrient powerhouse. “Add one spoon of psyllium, flax seeds, or hemp seeds for a nutrient-dense fibre shake,” noted Dr Sethi.
5. Caffeinated drinks
Yet another common stimulant, caffeinated drinks include black coffee or green tea. “Caffeine stimulates the gastrocolic reflex, which helps bowel movement,” highlighted Dr Sethi.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
