10 Natural Laxatives
Laxative #5: Legumes
Legumes refer to a group of edible plants such as peas, beans, peanuts, lentils, and chickpeas. Legumes are a great natural laxative as they are high in fiber. For example, chickpeas provide 2.2 grams of fiber per serving (12.5 grams, 1 tbsp) while lentils provide 1 gram of fiber per serving (12.3 grams, 1 tbsp).
Another reason why legumes are a good natural laxative is the production of butyric acid during consumption of legumes. Studies have shown the consumption of butyric acid can help with constipation as it positively interacts with gastrointestinal flora, helps with GI infections, is an anti-inflammatory, among other traits. Legumes also have anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce intestinal inflammation, especially if there are existing digestive disorders.
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