Conclusion: Several foodstuffs may exert an effect on stool consistency. Chocolate, bananas and black tea are perceived to cause constipation, while prunes are perceived to soften stools in many people. Coffee, wine and beer were perceived to soften stools in a minority of people.
Chocolate actually slows down the digestive process and is among the worst culprits for causing constipation.
Chocolate is made from a cacao plant called Theobroma cacao. The cacao husks found in the waste product of chocolate production could potentially act as a laxative.
Traditionally, chocolate has been viewed as a potential trigger for gut symptoms like pain, cramping, bloating, gas and diarrhea. This is because chocolate, particularly milk chocolate, contains a lot of sugar, including lactose, milk proteins and fat – all of which can cause symptoms in susceptible persons.
No, if consumed in reasonable quantities. Does it cause diarrhoea? No, although consumed in excessive amounts, dark chocolate may speed up bowel movements because it is rich in minerals and fibre. Dark chocolate does not cause constipation; on the contrary, it can even relieve constipation.
Dumping syndrome is a condition in which food, especially food high in sugar, moves from your stomach into your small bowel too quickly after you eat. Sometimes called rapid gastric emptying, dumping syndrome most often occurs as a result of surgery on your stomach or esophagus.
Helping with gut health
Much like the polyphenols in fruits, nuts, and seeds, those in dark chocolate “are like rocket fuel for your gut microbes,” says Prof. Spector. Cocoa is also a prebiotic, a type of fiber that your gut bacteria digest.
In the same rat model of AOM-induced colon cancer, a diet including dark chocolate has been reported to reduce cell proliferation and some gene expression involving inflammation (COX-2 and p-65-NF-ĸB), resulting in a lower number of early preneoplastic lesions [42].
Chocolate bars and chocolate candy can trigger IBS because they're typically high in fat and sugar and commonly contain lactose and caffeine. Some people experience constipation after eating chocolate.
Eating a lot of high-fat meats, dairy products and eggs, sweets, or processed foods may cause constipation. Not enough fluids. Water and other fluids help fiber work better, so not drinking enough liquids can contribute to harder stools that are more difficult to pass.
The antioxidants in dark chocolate help to lower bad cholesterol levels and prevent plaque on artery walls, while the flavanols in chocolate are good for lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow. Eating dark chocolate in moderation can lower your chances of heart disease.
Try yogurt with probiotics, live bacteria that's good for your digestive system. It may help relieve constipation.
Humans can easily digest and excrete methylxanthines, the half life of theobromine being 2-3 hours.
Caffeine. Caffeine can increase diarrhea, another major symptom of IBS. High sources of caffeine include coffee, tea, cola drinks, chocolate and some over-the-counter pain relievers designed for headache relief — check labels carefully.
Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains polyphenols that can slow GI function as well as increase water absorption to prevent diarrhea.
If you're having bowel movements more often, chances are you've made some change in your lifestyle. For example, you may be eating more whole grains, which increases fiber intake. More-frequent bowel movements also could be related to a mild illness that will take care of itself.
There is no “normal” number of bowel movements. Many healthcare providers agree that healthy bowel movement frequency can range from three times a day to three times a week.
You don't need to poop every day to be regular. It's normal and healthy to have a bowel movement anywhere between three times a week to three times a day. If you're producing soft, well-formed logs that aren't hard to push out, your bowels are probably in good shape.
Eat a diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and healthy fat
You should aim for 25 to 28 grams per day, but you can also just check your poops to gauge whether or not you're getting the right amount. Foods high in fiber include oats, black beans, lentils, chia, flaxseed, barely, and Brussels sprouts, among others.
Osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (brand name Miralax) are well-tolerated by most older adults, and can be used daily.
Try natural laxatives that work fast for constipation relief, which include: aloe vera, leafy greens, chia and flax seeds, high fiber fruits, probiotic foods, and coconut water. Also make sure to drink plenty of water/fluids when consuming natural laxatives, since these work with high fiber foods to help soften stool.
May Increase Your Risk for High Cholesterol
White chocolate and milk chocolate are high in saturated fat and added sugars. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, overconsumption of saturated fat and added sugars is associated with high cholesterol and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.