Constipation is a common digestive disorder that affects many people and can significantly impact quality of life. Natural remedies such as flaxseed and psyllium offer promising solutions. In this blog post, we highlight two significant studies that have examined the effectiveness of these remedies.
Study 1: The effect of flaxseed on functional constipation
Title: Effects of flaxseed supplementation on functional constipation and quality of life in a Chinese population: A randomized trial
Authors: Jianqin Sun, Huijing Bai, Jianxia Ma, Ruiyu Zhang, Hua Xie, Yanmei Zhang, Mingquan Guo, Jianfeng Yao
Journal: Asian Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.6133/apjcn.202003_29(1).0009
Abstract:
This prospective, randomized, controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of flaxseed supplementation on functional constipation and quality of life in adult men and women in China. 90 subjects with functional constipation diagnosed according to the Rome IV criteria were included. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: one group received 50 g/day of flaxseed flour with meals (n=60), the other group received 15 ml/day of a lactulose solution on an empty stomach (n=30) for 4 weeks.
Methods and study design:
The primary outcomes included Wexner constipation scores, stool consistency according to the Bristol Stool Form Scale, and bowel habits (frequency of bowel movements per week, time spent in bowel movements). The secondary endpoint was the change in the patient's rating of quality of life for constipation.
Results of the study:
After 4 weeks, both groups showed significant improvements in bowel habits:
- Wexner constipation score: The mean score decreased from 14 to 6.5 in the flaxseed group and from 15 to 9 in the lactulose group (p<0.001 for both groups).
- Stool frequency: The mean stool frequency per week increased significantly (from 2 to 7 in the flaxseed group and from 2 to 6 in the lactulose group, p<0.001 for both groups).
- Quality of life: The quality of life score decreased significantly (-1.34 for flaxseed and -0.66 for lactulose; p<0.001 for both groups).
Conclusions:
Flaxseed flour is slightly more effective than lactulose in increasing stool frequency and improves the quality of life of individuals with chronic functional constipation in the Chinese population.
Study 2: The superiority of psyllium over sodium docusate in the treatment of chronic constipation
Title: Psyllium is superior to docusate sodium for treatment of chronic constipation
Authors: JW McRorie, BP Daggy, JG Morel, PS Diersing, PB Miner, M Robinson
Journal: Food and Drug Administration
Date: 1998
DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.1998.00336.x
Abstract:
This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel design study included 170 subjects with chronic idiopathic constipation. Participants underwent a 2-week baseline phase (placebo) followed by a 2-week treatment phase. In the treatment phase, psyllium (5.1 g bd) plus docusate placebo was compared with sodium docusate (100 mg bd) plus psyllium placebo. Stools were collected and evaluated.
Methods and study design:
The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: one group received 5.1 g of psyllium twice daily (n=85), the other group received 100 mg of sodium docusate twice daily (n=85) for a period of 2 weeks. The study phase included a 2-week baseline phase (placebo) and a 2-week treatment phase.
Results of the study
- Stool water content: Psyllium increased stool water content significantly more than sodium docusate (psyllium 2.33% vs. docusate 0.01%, P = 0.007).
- Total stool output: Psyllium increased total stool output (psyllium 359.9 g/week vs. docusate 271.9 g/week; P = 0.005).
- Stool frequency: Psyllium resulted in higher stool frequency (3.5 stool movements/week) compared to sodium docusate (2.9 stool movements/week) at treatment week 2 (P = 0.02).
Conclusions:
Psyllium is superior to sodium docusate in softening stool by increasing stool water content and demonstrates greater overall laxative efficacy in subjects with chronic idiopathic constipation.
Frequently asked questions about home remedies for constipation
Which home remedies help with constipation?:
Natural remedies such as flaxseed and psyllium are proven remedies for constipation. Other home remedies include prune juice, green kiwis, sauerkraut juice, and plenty of water.
How do flax seeds work against constipation?:
Flaxseeds are rich in fiber and help soften stools and increase stool frequency. One study showed that flaxseeds can increase average stool frequency from 2 to 7 times per week.
How much flaxseed should you take for constipation?:
The study used a daily dose of 50 g of flaxseed flour with meals, which showed significant improvements in bowel habits and quality of life.
How long does it take for flaxseed to work for constipation?:
The positive effects of flaxseed can be seen within 4 weeks, as shown in the study.
Are psyllium seeds better than other laxatives?:
Yes, one study showed that psyllium is superior to sodium docusate by significantly increasing stool water content and stool frequency.
How much psyllium should you take for constipation?:
The study used a dose of 5.1 g of psyllium twice daily, which resulted in significant improvements.
Conclusion:
Regular consumption of flaxseed and psyllium can be an effective and natural way to treat constipation. Both studies show that these natural remedies can improve stool frequency and quality and increase the quality of life of people with chronic constipation.
Sources
- Flaxseed: Effects of flaxseed supplementation on functional constipation and quality of life in a Chinese population: A randomized trial
- Psyllium: Psyllium is superior to docusate sodium for treatment of chronic constipation
Additional information:
Learn more about the health benefits of flaxseed and psyllium and other natural remedies for constipation. Visit our website to discover more helpful tips and scientific evidence to improve your digestive health.
Share your experiences:
Do you have any other tips or home remedies for constipation? Share your experiences in the comments!
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