Forty constipated patients (with a mean age of 38) participated in an 8-week single-blind, randomized cross-over study to determine if dried plums (prunes) or psyllium (Metamucil) was more effective at relieving their symptoms. Each group received 6 grams of dietary fiber (8-9 pitted prunes). The dried plums had significantly (p<0.05) better results than the psyllium, improving regularity by 94% compared to 75%. Both prunes and psyllium were rated as equally palatable.
PositiveTip: Prunes are a safe, tasty and effective treatment for mild to moderate constipation.