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Natural Laxative Foods

Do you wish you could find a natural way to control your digestive system instead of relying on chemical dependency (drugs)? In today's medicine-oriented culture, we've become creatures of habit to the point that we no longer listen to what our bodies are telling us. Instead, we pay good money to visit a doctor for all of ten minutes just to receive nothing more than a prescription for a powerful drug that "cures" nothing. However, did you know you can eat your way to better health with natural laxative foods?

So What's Wrong with Medicine?

Nothing if you don't mind experiencing your health problem over and over again. One major problem is that many of these drugs are created simply to cover up the symptoms and not address the real issue. Think about it-if, for example, you're suffering from acid reflux, your doctor will likely give you a prescription for a drug designed to lower the acid pH in your stomach (making it more alkaline).

Most physicians never even bother trying to find out what could be causing the problem, but as long as the pain goes away, they think they accomplished something and they move on to the next customer … uh patient. Doctors never even tell you about the health benefits of eating natural laxative foods or colon cleansing as ways to avoid the onset of constipation.

Constipation is another symptom that is routinely ignored and is considered an inconvenience rather than a serious indicator of something wrong in the body. It's for this lack of respect that so many people suffering from constipation don't go to a doctor for help. These individuals usually visit their local pharmacy and pick up some suppositories, chemical enema solution, or other over-the-counter medication to relieve their constipation (for a little while anyway). While it's true that in most cases constipation probably results from poor diet and exercise habits, this digestive dilemma can be a major warning sign that a larger problem is looming in the shadows. Eating more natural laxative foods may prevent trouble in your digestive tract over the long haul.

A Better Way to Avoid Constipation

With what we know about certain natural laxative foods and their health-giving properties, getting rid of your constipation can be as easy as sitting down to dinner. Proper exercise and drinking plenty of water are especially beneficial for developing a healthy digestive system. Here's a list of some natural laxative foods that can help relieve constipation symptoms as well as strengthen your overall digestive process.

Delicious and Nutritious Natural Laxative Foods

*Note: The following should be organic.

• Bran Cereals-High fiber cereals are a great addition to your diet and a healthful way to start your day. Usually low in preservatives and sugars, bran cereals are a great source of dietary fiber.
• Beans, Peas, and Legumes-Low in fat and cholesterol, beans and legumes are high in fiber and protein and are a great substitute for meat.
• Broccoli-Very high and fiber and an excellent natural antibiotic, broccoli has also demonstrated some cancer-fighting potential.
• Dried Fruit-When dried organically, dried fruit keeps much of the nutritional properties of the raw variety. Dried figs, prunes, and apricots are great laxatives.
• Nuts-High in fiber, protein, vitamin E and calcium, almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, and chestnuts lead the way as the best choices. Nuts are also very filling, so you don't have to eat many before feeling satisfied.
• Cherries-A natural blood stimulant, cherries have been used for centuries to detoxify the kidneys. Cherries also have the anti-cancer compound, ellagic acid, and are very effective at relieving constipation.
• Bananas-High in fiber and a natural bulk-producing agent, bananas are great for promoting easy digestion.
• Apples-The high pectin levels in apples stimulate the bowels and also provide bulk for bowel movements. One of the best natural laxative foods is organic apple cider vinegar. Just pour a small amount into a glass of purified water and drink it for a host of health benefits.
• Carrots-A rich source of Beta-Carotene, carrots are natural cancer fighters. Also high in pectin, carrots add bulk to stool and can stimulate bowel contractions.
• Green Vegetables-Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and turnip greens are very high in vitamins and minerals and possess strong laxative properties.
• Cinnamon-Cinnamon stimulates intestinal peristalsis (the wave-like contractions) and also triggers the release of bile for digestion.

Other natural food laxatives include tamarind, dates, prunes, coconut, and Brussels sprouts. Fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are also good laxative foods.

How Can You Add More Natural Laxative Foods to Your Diet?

As you can see, many natural laxative foods are quite nutritious and great for your health. It's also easy to add more of these organic items to your diet. Enjoy a bowl of bran cereal with strawberries on top for a low-fat breakfast. For lunch, try a nice salad with spinach, walnuts, and grapes. Enjoy a handful of fresh almonds and cherries for a mid-afternoon snack. Dinner can include beans or legumes with a nice side of lightly steamed or even raw vegetables. Some dried fruit or hazelnuts make an ideal nighttime snack. As a matter of fact, hazelnuts contain Tryptophan, which can help you relax before going to bed.

By increasing your intake of natural laxative foods, you can greatly reduce your chances of experiencing constipation and other colon related problems. With all the healing and cancer-fighting properties you can receive, it just makes sense to eat more of these foods. Both scientific research and common sense have shown the way to developing a healthier colon and better overall vitality. All these benefits, and getting them is easier than ever. All you have to do is sit down and eat some yummy natural laxative foods!