Constipation can leave you feeling uncomfortable, bloated, and sluggish. When bowel movements become difficult or infrequent, many people look for simple natural ways to support digestion. One popular combination is flaxseed and lemon mixed with water.
Flaxseed is a good source of dietary fiber, including soluble fiber that absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance. Increasing fiber gradually, together with adequate fluid intake, can help make stools softer and easier to pass.
However, there is an important misconception to clear up: there is no special drink that can “clean out years of stuck poop” from the intestines. The digestive system naturally moves waste through the body. You also do not normally have old feces permanently stored inside your intestines.
The same is true of swallowed chewing gum. Although gum is not completely digested, it generally passes through the digestive tract and leaves the body in the stool. It does not normally remain inside the body for years.
If you want to try flaxseed as part of a healthy diet, start with a small amount and increase gradually. Ground flaxseed is often easier to incorporate into meals than whole seeds.
For a simple drink, place about 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or whole flaxseed in a glass of water. Let it sit for several minutes so the seeds can absorb some of the liquid. Add a small amount of fresh lemon juice for flavor if you enjoy it, then stir well and drink.
The most important part is adequate hydration. Fiber without enough fluid can sometimes make constipation worse, particularly if you suddenly increase your fiber intake.
