Natural, delicious DIY drink that fights constipation and aids in anti-ageing

Constipation is especially common among older individuals due to slower metabolism, pregnant women due to elevated progesterone levels, sedentary individuals, and those with an insufficient fiber intake.

Digestive problems can occur in people outside these groups as well, so it's essential for everyone to know how to manage them.

Several methods can help address constipation and other digestive problems: increasing fiber and water intake, engaging in regular physical activity (even brisk walking), avoiding hard-to-digest foods, using probiotics, taking magnesium citrate and vitamin C supplements, and managing stress.

Sometimes, however, these approaches may not be enough. If the problems are persistent and long-lasting, it's worth consulting with a doctor who can order tests and guide further actions. Nevertheless, if your digestive problems are intermittent, consider preparing a wonderful (and delicious) drink that can help your issues disappear. How is this accomplished?

The most efficient time to prepare this drink is before bedtime, so you can enjoy it in the morning. You will need a few dried plums (6-8), 1 cup (around 8.45 ounces) of warm water, and a bit of patience.

In the evening, put the plums into a glass and soak them in the water. By morning (when they've softened), simply blend everything together. Ready! It's best to consume this on an empty stomach.

Dried prunes are high in fiber, necessary for the proper functioning of the digestive system. They help regulate digestion, maintain regular bowel movements, and provide a lengthy feeling of fullness.

Prunes also contain sorbitol (a natural laxative and type of sugar alcohol often used as a sweetener), vitamins A, C, E, B and K, and minerals such as potassium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, magnesium, and copper.

Thanks to their high antioxidant content (polyphenols), prunes fight free radicals, exhibit anti-ageing effects, reduce the risk of heart disease and neurodegenerative diseases, and potentially lessen the risk of certain types of cancer.

Prunes have relatively low fat and cholesterol levels, but a high sugar content. This means that they can effectively serve as a sweet treat, but they should be consumed cautiously by those with diabetes and children under three years old.