Vinegar may ease constipation

If you often struggle with constipation a common kitchen ingredient may offer some relief.

A new study suggests that drinking a small amount of vinegar every day may help improve bowel movements in people with mild constipation.

The research published in Scientific Reports, found that drinking vinegar in liquid form may support better bowel function.

Eating foods containing vinegar may also provide some benefits. Researchers believe acetic acid one of the main components of vinegar could play a role.

What did the study find?

The study included 44 people between the ages of 20 and 69 who had mild constipation. They were divided into two groups. One group was given a vinegar based drink with breakfast every day, while the other group received a placebo drink.

The vinegar drink was prepared by mixing vinegar with water. It also contained an artificial sweetener and apple.

After the first week people who drank the vinegar mixture showed improvements in bowel function.  Over four weeks their constipation symptoms also decreased significantly.

Researchers said the findings suggest that regular vinegar consumption may help reduce constipation.

They also pointed out that drinking enough fluids is important because dehydration can make constipation worse.

More research is needed

The researchers noted that acetic acid in vinegar may provide additional benefits. However they also stressed that the study had limitations and its findings cannot yet be considered conclusive.

More research involving larger groups of people is needed to better understand whether vinegar can be used as a reliable way to prevent or relieve constipation.

Constipation is a common digestive problem that can affect people of all ages although it is more common among older adults.  Common causes include dehydration a low fiber diet certain medicines medical conditions and problems affecting the nervous system.