At times, waiting around for nature’s call isn’t an option. Maybe you’re in a rush to get to work and prefer not to deal with bathroom business in the office. Or maybe you want to ensure a clear colon before a special evening to avoid any unexpected predicaments later.
For whatever reason you seek prompt relief, we’ve curated a list of ten beverages that are known to promote faster bowel movements.
However, we should clarify that, while these drinks can increase the likelihood of faster bowel movements, there are no guarantees of instant results. Nonetheless, they can certainly tip the odds in your favor. Rest assured, we’ve conducted our fair share of experiments in this department.
Top 8 Drinks That Make You Poop Immediately
When it comes to promoting healthy digestion and relieving occasional constipation, some beverages can be your helpers. These drinks are loaded with dietary fiber, antioxidants, and other natural compounds that encourage smoother bowel movements.
Baking Soda Solution
Baking soda is a natural antacid with potential digestive benefits. While there’s no scientific evidence, some use a baking soda solution to ease digestive discomfort, including constipation. Dissolve a tablespoon of baking soda in a glass of water and sip it slowly on an empty stomach.
Lemon Juice
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps hydrate your gut, stimulate bowel movements, and promote regularity. Mix the juice of half a lemon into a glass of warm water and consume it on an empty stomach.
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, black tea, green tea, and chamomile can have a natural laxative effect for some individuals. They lubricate the digestive system, promote relaxation, and help prevent dry stools. Option for unsweetened versions to avoid added sugars that could worsen constipation.
Coffee
Your morning cup of joe may do more than wake you up. Coffee contains chlorogenic acid, which stimulates acid production in the gastrointestinal tract. This prompts stomach contractions and signals to your brain that it’s time for a bathroom break. A study even found that 29% of people had the urge to defecate within just 20 minutes of drinking coffee.
Prune Juice
Prunes are renowned for their natural laxative properties. Loaded with magnesium, potassium, and sorbitol, prune juice helps soften stools and promote regularity. The Mayo Clinic recommends starting your day with 4–8 ounces of prune juice for effective relief.
Magnesium Citrate
An over-the-counter supplement, magnesium citrate, can produce results in as little as an hour. It works by drawing water into your intestines, softening stool, and making it easier to pass. For constipation relief, consume about 10 ounces of magnesium citrate, followed by a glass of water.
Kefir
Kefir, a fermented milk drink, accelerates colonic transit, making it an effective option for fast relief. It improves stool consistency, reduces straining, and enhances overall bowel satisfaction by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
Kombucha
Kombucha, a probiotic-rich fermented tea, has been associated with digestive benefits. While there’s no official evidence to guarantee immediate results, the placebo effect can’t be underestimated. If you believe kombucha can help you poop, it just might.
Castor Oil
Derived from castor beans, castor oil has been a natural remedy for constipation for centuries. Classified as a stimulative laxative by the FDA, it causes intestinal muscles to contract and induces bowel movements. A standard dose is one tablespoon, which can be mixed with fruit juice for a more palatable experience.