Talk about a nutritious breakfast!
Oatmeal is known for its heart-healthy benefits, but is it good for constipation?
That’s largely due to its fiber content, which alsohelps with gut health.
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Specifically, when it comes to managing constipation, oatmeal can play a helpful role.
What’s the Link Between Oatmeal and Constipation?
There are two types of fiber:soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fiber absorbs water, so it forms a gel-like substance during digestion.
According to theUSDA, 1 cup of raw oats contains over 8 grams of fiber.
It Promotes a Healthy Gut Microbiome
Oats are an especially good source of soluble fiber.
Namely, they contain beta-glucan, which is associated with a plethora of health benefits.
The researchers found two ways fiber can act as a laxative in the large intestine.
For one, large insoluble fiber particles irritate the gut and stimulate water and mucous secretion.
Second, soluble fiber resists dehydration due to its high water-holding capacity.
The higher water content of stool resulting from these mechanisms makes stool bulkier, softer and easier to pass.
Since oats are a good source of soluble fiber, they provide softening effects making stool easier to pass.
What Foods Help to Relieve Constipation?
As you now know, fiber, in general, helps prevent and manage constipation.
Therefore, meeting recommended daily fiber intake can help promote your overall gastrointestinal health, including constipation relief.
For example, plenty of chip options are high in fiber, and not all frozen meals are fiber-free.
OurApple Cinnamon Overnight Oatsare a delicious, easy-to-prep example!
Frequently Asked Questions
Oatmeal likely won’t make you constipated.
If anything, it can help relieve constipation thanks to its soluble fiber content.
Soluble fiber helps soften stool, making it easier to pass.
That being said, you will also need todrink enough fluidsto help move the fiber through your system.
That being said, oatmeal can help relieve constipation, so eating it may help relieve any constipation-related bloating.
Oatmeal can actually help relieve constipation, so most people shouldn’t have to worry about oatmeal causing constipation.
Oatmeal couldmake a great breakfastfor constipation!
