Constipation is a common issue that affects everyone at some point, regardless of age or gender. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 16 out of every 100 people experience constipation, and this number increases to 33 out of every 100 for those in their 60s. Even individuals with balanced and healthy diets can face constipation due to various factors such as certain medications or health conditions. Hence, never having experienced constipation does not guarantee immunity from it in the future.
Given its prevalence, especially with age, knowing how to relieve constipation quickly is essential. While many foods can help, oven-dried strawberries are a tasty and unexpected low-carb option. As noted by the Times of India, dried fruits provide antioxidants and fiber, which are crucial for maintaining regularity.
How oven-dried strawberries help constipation
Strawberries, like many fruits and vegetables, contain sorbitol and insoluble fiber. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, sorbitol is not broken down during digestion, prompting the body to expel it from the colon, leading to a bowel movement. Insoluble fiber aids in this process by adding bulk to the stool and facilitating its passage through the digestive tract, as explained by the Mayo Clinic. Together, sorbitol and insoluble fiber form an effective combination for relieving constipation.
The concentrated fiber in dried fruit makes it more effective than fresh fruit. Drying removes water but retains fiber, making the fruit more potent. According to Healthline, dried fruit has 3.5 times more fiber and vitamins compared to fresh fruit of the same weight.
How to prepare oven-dried strawberries
Preparing oven-dried strawberries is simple. Start by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse the strawberries and slice them lengthwise to about ¼ inch thick. Arrange the slices evenly on a parchment-lined cookie sheet without overlapping. Bake for approximately four hours, flipping them halfway through to ensure even drying.
Once dried, let them cool for 15 to 20 minutes before enjoying. You can eat them alone or add them to yogurt, cereal, granola, or other dishes. When stored in an airtight container, dried strawberries can last up to three months. Ensure no moisture gets in, as it can ruin the batch.
