little fiber per 100 g but still have laxative effect because of
other active compounds. Prunes and plums are a source of
the sugar alcohols xylitol and sorbitol [9,10]. Xylitol
increases gastric emptying and decreases intestinal transit
time [11], and transforms the intestinal microbiota into more
acid-producing ones [12]. Sorbitol has a laxative effect and
brings about changes in intestinal microbiota, too [13-15].
Prunes and plums also contain phenolic compounds, mainly
in the form of neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acids, which
may assist in the laxative action [10].
Serious constipation requires medical treatment, that is,
laxatives. In mild constipation, nutritional therapy is often
preferred. Although prunes and plums are traditionally
believed to relieve constipation, in constipation studies
they are often combined with other laxative compounds.
Because prunes and plums would offer a simple solution to
relieve constipation, we examined whether prune juice
alone has a laxative effect on the bowel function of those
adults who would benefit from nutritional laxatives, that is,
adults with certain gastrointestinal symptoms but are
otherwise healthy