Foods for Constipation Relief

Nuts are a filling food that is also packed with fiber to help ease constipation.

• Almonds, pecans, and walnuts have more fiber than other nuts. Just 1 ounce of almonds (about 23 nuts) contains 3.5 g of fiber, 1 ounce of pecans (about 19 halves) contains 2.7 g of fiber, and 1 ounce of walnuts (14 halves) has 1.9 g of fiber.
• Seeds are another good fiber-filled choice for constipation relief. A scant 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds contains 1.1 g fiber, while 1 ounce of pumpkin seeds (about 85 seeds) has a whopping 5 g fiber. Sprinkle seeds on top of salads for added fiber and crunch.

Remember that nuts and seeds are high in calories, so keep portions small. Choose nuts and seeds that are raw or dry roasted, rather than roasted in oil.

With the skin, an average pear provides 5 to 6 grams of dietary fiber to regulate the digestive system. Pears also are great for babies with constipation. Look for baby foods with pears as an ingredient, and pear juice can also aid constipation in infants. Fresh plums do not have much fiber, but dried plums – prunes – have as much as 12 g of fiber per cup and are excellent for relieving constipation. One large apple has more than 5 g of fiber.