Constipation is a common issue among many people, especially the elderly. A recent study has found that consuming fresh kiwi fruit juice in a freeze-dried form can improve bowel habits and overall quality of life in elderly patients suffering from mild to moderate constipation. In the study, 42 elderly patients took a food supplement of 6 capsules 3 times a day for 4 weeks following a one-week control period. Bowel habits such as evacuation time and stool quality improved from the 14th day and continued for 28 days compared to the control period. Quality of life in terms of external appearance, lumbago, and headache also improved. No apparent adverse effects were observed.

Additionally, another study has found that consuming kiwi fruit can also be beneficial for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) specifically with constipation (IBS/C). The study included 54 patients with IBS/C and 16 healthy adults. The subjects consumed two kiwifruits per day for 4 weeks and the results showed that kiwifruit consumption for 4 weeks shortens colon transit time, increases defecation frequency, and improves bowel function in adults diagnosed with IBS/C.

A third study also found that Kiwi fruit, prunes and psyllium can be effective in improving bowel movements. 79 CC patients were randomized and complete data was available for 75 patients. For secondary outcomes comparing treatment weeks 3&4 to baseline, there was a significant increase in weekly CSBM rate with all 3 treatments. Stool consistency significantly improved with kiwi and prunes. Straining significantly improved with kiwi, prunes, and psyllium. Adverse events were most common with psyllium and least common with kiwi. At the end of treatment, a smaller proportion of patients were dissatisfied with kiwi compared to prunes or psyllium.

In conclusion, kiwi fruit is a natural and safe solution for improving bowel movements. It is a great option for those suffering from constipation, particularly the elderly and those with IBS/C. It is also a great option for those who are looking for a natural alternative to improve their bowel movements. It is important to note that more research is needed to confirm the long-term effects and safety of consuming kiwi fruit as a laxative. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or taking any supplements.

Sources:

1. Mild Laxative and QOL-improving Effects of Kiwi Fruit Extract in the Elderly-An Explanatory Study on Effectiveness and Safety- | Japanese Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine;: 97-103, 2009. | WPRIM (bvsalud.org)
2. S0454 Randomized, Comparative Effectiveness Trial of Green K… : Official journal of the American College of Gastroenterology | ACG (lww.com)
3. Kiwifruit Improves Bowel Function in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation | Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition (informit.org)Kiwifruit Improves Bowel Function in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation | Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition (informit.org)
4. Consumption of 2 Green Kiwifruits Daily Improves Constipatio… : Official journal of the American College of Gastroenterology | ACG (lww.com)