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Vinegar Study: Daily Sip May Ease Mild Constipation
17 Sep
Summary
- Daily vinegar consumption of 750mg acetic acid increased bowel movements.
- Mild constipation definition: fewer than three bowel movements weekly.
- Experts advise caution, recommend fiber, fluids, and activity first.
A new study has indicated that consuming a daily vinegar beverage might offer relief for individuals experiencing mild constipation. Researchers found that participants who consumed 750 milligrams of acetic acid daily, mixed in a beverage, reported an increase in their weekly bowel movements.
Healthy adults in Japan, identified as having mild constipation with three to five bowel movements weekly, participated in a four-week randomized controlled trial. Those who drank a beverage containing brewed vinegar and acetic acid showed a significant increase in defecation frequency compared to a placebo group.
While the findings are promising for a potential dietary approach to bowel health, experts stress that more research is needed. They advise sticking to well-established methods such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a consistent bathroom routine for constipation management.
Experts also caution against consuming concentrated vinegar or supplements, noting that vinegar's acidity can irritate the esophagus and erode dental enamel. They suggest that mineral-rich water might be more beneficial for constipation than simply increasing fluid intake.
