Are Beet Smoothies Healthy Long Term
My concern with long term use of beet smoothies is two-part: One, beets are high in oxalates. It may be best to rotate beet smoothies with berry-soaked-chia smoothies to reduce the intake of oxalic intake.
Second, please continue to look for the root cause of your constipation. While this smoothie works, consider other changes or insights that may eliminate the need for supplements .
Consider these changes:
- Increase magnesium intake.
- Consider the vitamin A detox diet. This is the diet that allowed me to stop taking my iron supplement. My iron supplement was the cause of my constipation. When the liver is overloaded with vitamin A, it pushes iron out. With a functional or naturopathic doctors help, consider an alternative to your iron supplement: Why is your body prone towards anemia? Again, look for the root cause. While I loved this smoothie remedy for many months, I no longer need it because of my new diet and the wellness thats happening as a result.
Also Check: Ergotamine In Pregnancy
What To Look For
Most of these commercial milk is loaded with vitamins and minerals but if you are not eating any dairy products, you should choose the one that is rich in calcium. At the same time, almond milk contains tricalcium phosphate which is a less concentrated type of calcium.
For homemade almond milk, where most of those blending the almonds would use a whole almond that still got skin on it, has high fiber. So this kind of almond milk, the homemade ones, is good for digestion.
If you are not the type who wants to buy commercial milk, then you can just make almond milk at home. You can just blend the almonds and water and strain it to remove particles.
Phosphorus And Potassium Level
Almond milk proves to be a good alternative for those looking to reduce potassium and phosphorus intake due to kidney disease.
As people with chronic kidney disease often avoid milk due to its high levels of phosphorus and potassium. Since their kidneys cannot properly clear these nutrients, there is a risk they will build up in the blood.
Don’t Miss: Can Xanax Help Ibs
Dairy Products That May Reduce Constipation
There are certain forms of dairy foods that may actually be helpful in relieving digestive problems. Raw milk is considered by many natural health practitioners to be more easily digested than the more widely available pasteurised varieties, and may be helpful in relieving constipation and other digestive problems. Raw milk is something of a controversial subject and it is important to source as much information as possible to help determine if it is suitable for you. If it is something you would like to try, it is recommended that you get this from a reputable supplier.
Live natural yoghurt contains live cultures which may possess a probiotic benefit in helping to boost levels of healthy gut bacteria, working to improve digestion and keeping things moving. Another more unusual type of dairy food called kefir may also be beneficial to those experiencing constipation and abdominal discomfort. Kefir is a type of fermented milk containing live cultures, and is used in many Eastern and Northern European countries as a health food. Kefir is becoming more popular here in the UK too, as its potential health benefits in the gut are recognised.
Blood Sugar Is Not Raised By Unsweetened Almond Milk:

Almond milk is a healthy option for people with diabetes. Also, for those who avoid sugar due to health or diet concerns. Moreover, almond milk has a high protein and fat content.
Another advantage is the low carbohydrate content. Thus, the blood sugar level remains unaffected. Moreover, it is beneficial to diabetic patients. Almond milk is also great for low-carb diet plans. Furthermore, this helps to maintain normal body weight.
However, there is also sugar in almond milk that is available in the market. Before you buy manufactured milk, make sure you read the ingredient lists.
Recommended Reading: Almond Milk Makes Me Bloated
Is Almond Milk Hard To Digest
Almond milk is high in fiber. It aids in digestion rather than causing any block when compared to animal-based milk. But the problem of constipation or other digestive issues arises when a person uses a brand with many preservatives, additives, and chemicals. This is why homemade almond milk is recommended to people who suffer from constipation.
Cons Of Taking Almond Milk
Almond milk, eventhe undiluted ones, does not contain enough protein. One cup of milk only contains 1 gram of protein which is relatively lower than cows milk and soy milk which is around 8 grams.
This should not be challenging even for vegans since they can still get it from other protein-rich food such as lentils. As for the nonvegans, they can easily get it from meat products.
Another downside of almond milk, the commercial ones, is high in additives. These additives do not cause serious illness but when taken in large amounts can affect your health.
Commercial almond milk sold in supermarkets contains emulsifiers and gum which poses no threat unless taken in large quantities. The good thing is that most manufacturers would avoid adding these additives for health concerns.
Finally, some commercial milk also contains high sugar so when buying milk, you have to check on its sugar content.
Read Also: Align Probiotic Supplement Reviews
When Should I Introduce Whole Milk To Baby
Whole milk is traditionally introduced at the first birthday. There is nothing magical that occurs on that very date, but this is a good time to anticipate introducing whole milk. If formula is running low or the mother needs to stop breastfeeding due to supply issues or other factors, whole milk may be introduced a couple of weeks early. It is also fine to delay the introduction of whole milk by a couple of weeks.
Milk And Dairy Products
Dairy appears to be another common cause of constipation, at least for some people.
Infants, toddlers, and children appear particularly at risk, possibly due to a sensitivity to the proteins found in cows milk .
A review of studies conducted over a 26-year period found that some children with chronic constipation experienced improvements when they stopped consuming cows milk .
In a recent study, children aged 112 with chronic constipation drank cows milk for a period of time. The cows milk was then replaced by soy milk for a subsequent period of time.
Nine of the 13 children in the study experienced constipation relief when cows milk was replaced by soy milk .
There are many anecdotal reports of similar experiences in adults. However, little scientific support could be found, since most studies examining these effects are focused on children, not older populations.
Its worth noting that those who are lactose intolerant may experience diarrhea, rather than constipation, after consuming dairy.
SUMMARY
Dairy products may cause constipation in some individuals. This effect is most common in those who are sensitive to the proteins found in cows milk.
Red meat may worsen constipation for three main reasons.
First, it contains little fiber, which adds bulk to stools and helps them move along.
Second, red meat may also indirectly reduce a persons total daily fiber intake by taking the place of higher-fiber options in the diet.
Also Check: Why Does Peanut Butter Give Me Indigestion
Go Slow And Drink Water
Although a high-fiber diet can help prevent constipation, if you increase your fiber intake too quickly and don’t also increase the amount of water you drink, it could actually cause constipation, bloating, gas or diarrhea until your body gets used to your new, higher intake of fiber. Eating more than 50 grams of fiber per day can also interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms Of Milk Allergies
But the classic symptoms of milk intolerance are diarrhea, spitting up, or abdominal pain. Many kids with milk intolerance also wheeze, especially when they get a cold. They can also have the dry, sensitive skin of eczema and their noses always seem to be running. Ear infections are also more common than in other kids. Constipation, however, has not been typically associated with milk intolerance â until now.
The observation that constipation might sometimes be caused by milk intolerance has appeared in the medical literature from time to time, dating back as far as 1954. But only recently has there been a well-designed study published showing that this is indeed the case. The results of this study have helped many children to enjoy the exuberance of childhood without pain.
Read Also: Does Probiotics Help With Colitis
When To See A Doctor For Constipation
Most individuals have experienced some form of constipation in their lifetime. While constipation can go away on its own, it is helpful to know what can ease the discomfort of this common ailment. If home remedies for constipation or OTC products do not produce a bowel movement, an individual may need to seek medical attention. Untreated constipation can lead to an impacted bowel.
Constipation may be a symptom of a greater health concern, consult your doctor or healthcare professional if you have not had a bowel movement within a two- to three-week period of time. Furthermore, medical assistance may be needed if you are experiencing severe abdominal pain or concerning blood in the constipated stool. Ask your doctor about recommended home remedies for constipation and prevention of constipation in the future.
Olive And Flaxseed Oils

Olive and flaxseed oils have a mild laxative effect, which can ease the flow of materials through the intestines and relieve constipation.
These oils also contain compounds that improve digestion and have antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2015 study found that olive and flaxseed oils help to relieve constipation in people undergoing hemodialysis.
Recommended Reading: Pouchitis Probiotics
Contact Doctor During Office Hours
- Leaking stool
- Suppository or enema was needed to get the stool out
- Infrequent stools do not get better after changes to diet. Exception: normal if breastfed infant more than 1 month old and stools are not painful.
- Stool softeners are being used and have not been discussed with your doctor
- Toilet training is in progress
- Painful stools occur 3 or more times after changes to diet
- Constipation is a frequent problem
- You have other questions or concerns
Why Is Oat Milk Bad For You
Oat milk can be bad for you if you are intolerant to gluten or suffering from celiac disease. Oats are gluten free, however if the oats or oat beverage are processed with equipment that is not certified then cross contamination can result in inflammation of the disease.
Oat milk may be good when taken in moderation, but might not be as good as it sounds when compared to cows milk. It has lesser protein and naturally lower in calcium, and in contrast is high in sugar and overall carbohydrates.
Oat milk is not recommended as a complete replacement for cows milk as the nutritional values are not comparable. Oat milk does not have enough protein to sustain growth and development, and when taken in excess can be bad for you.
It is not recommended to people who have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease because oats need to be certified gluten free and processed in manufacturing facilities that only handle wheat free products.
Additionally, oat carbs are complex and a bit tougher for your digestive tract to break down. If you are allergic to oats, you can experience diarrhea, cramping, bloating, constipation, or an upset stomach.
Read Also: Pronounce Microbiome
Living With Lactose Intolerance
Some people with lactose intolerance must avoid all foods containing lactose, but others can eat some dairy foods. Many people can drink lactose-free milk that has added calcium. Ask your doctor if this could be a good choice for you.
If you are new to lactose intolerance, start by figuring out whats best for you to eat. When you do eat dairy products, stick with foods that have smaller amounts of lactose in them, such as aged cheeses, including cheddar.
Yogurt that contains live cultures is more easily digested because it contains healthy bacteria that produce lactase. Even if youre lactose intolerant, you may be able to handle smaller portions of your favorite dairy products. It also may help to eat a food that does not contain lactose along with a food that does, so have some fruit with your bagel and cream cheese!
If you have lactose intolerance, make sure you still get enough calcium from foods like tofu, leafy green veggies , lactose-free milk, and juices or soy milk that have added calcium. Eating a healthy diet that includes many different kinds of food should do the trick.
If you cant seem to get enough calcium in your diet, your doctor may recommend a calcium supplement. You also need to get the right amount of vitamin D, which helps your body use calcium.
So keep on enjoying your snacks and meals, but choose your foods and drinks wisely so youll feel good before and after you eat!
Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Bloating Immediately
Can Milk Of Magnesia Really Alleviate Constipation
Milk of magnesia for constipation really does work. However, you must be certain to use it correctly in order to prevent more problems, such as diarrhea. Here’s what you need to know.
1. How It Works
Milk of magnesia contains magnesium as a main ingredient. Magnesium relaxes the intestinal muscles and attracts water, which make the stool much easier to pass. In fact, it works so well that a bowel movement should happen within six hours of taking either the liquid or tablet form.
2. How to Use it
Taking milk of magnesia for constipation once a day, right before bed, is probably your best bet. This way you can rest assured that your bowel movement will come during the night or in the morning, not while you are out during the day. In most cases, two tablespoons will be enough you can go up to three tablespoons per dose, but no more than that.
3. Precaution
It is important to remember that milk of magnesia for constipation should be used sparingly, as the saline in it can eventually cause dehydration and even unbalanced electrolytes.
Don’t Miss: Align Probiotic Supplements Reviews
Stools: How Often Is Normal
- Normal Range: 3 per day to 1 every 2 days. Once children are on normal table foods, their stool pattern is like adults.
- Kids who go every 4 or 5 days almost always have pain with passage. They also have a lot of straining.
- Kids who go every 3 days often drift into longer times. Then, they also develop symptoms.
- Passing a stool should be free of pain.
- Any child with pain during stool passage or lots of straining needs treatment. At the very least, the child should be treated with changes in diet.
What Is The Difference Between Lactose Intolerance And Milk Allergies
Lactose intolerance and milk allergies are different conditions with different causes. Lactose intolerance is caused by problems digesting lactose, the natural sugar in milk. In contrast, milk allergies are caused by your immune systems response to one or more proteins in milk and milk products.
A milk allergy most often appears in the first year of life, while lactose intolerance typically appears later.3,4 Lactose intolerance can cause uncomfortable symptoms, while a serious allergic reaction to milk can be life threatening.
Also Check: Probiotic Align Side Effects
Is Almond Milk Good For Constipation
Carrageenan may be present in manufactured almond milk. It thickens bottle milk, giving it its creamy consistency. Actually, carrageenan is a chemical irritant that affects the gut and gastrointestinal tract. Thus, causing bloating and Constipation.
However, homemade almond milk does not contain any stomach irritating nutrients. Until we add it ourselves. Therefore, homemade almond is okay for Constipation. While constipated, do not purchase almond extract milk from the market.
Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Locations

If your childâs illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.
Don’t Miss: Diarrhea Medicine Pregnancy
Does Almond Milk Cause Constipation
Almond milk is popular among millions of people for being high in nutrients, enriched with vitamin E, and having a low-calorie deficit. As a matter of fact, one cup of almond milk contains 30-50% of the daily requirement of vitamin E. However, you might feel constipated from some of the additives in store-bought almond milk meant to preserve the milk for shelf life or enhance the taste.
Almond milk is a great source of nutrition and has proved to be a very healthy alternative to cows milk. Millions of people have changed from animal-based to these plant-based milk alternatives, one of which is almond milk. But does drinking almond milk cause constipation? Lets find out.
So how come you experience constipation from having this plant-based milk which has so many benefits? Lets take a look into what causes this constipation and what you can do about it!