Feeling Constipated? Kiwi Fruit Could be The Natural Answer
- Editor OGN Daily
- Oct 17
- 2 min read
Kiwi fruit can help relieve constipation and is a better starting point than worrying about a high-fibre diet, according to new guidance for doctors on the condition.

The advice says drinking water high in minerals is better for constipation than tap water, and magnesium oxide supplements are good for improving symptoms.
Researchers from King's College London, who produced the guidance by examining all available evidence - and published their findings in the Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics - said there are many more options for getting things moving than the standard advice to "just have more fibre in your diet".
Constipation that doesn't go away affects one in 10 people and can have a major impact on someone's quality of life.
The new guidance suggests the best remedy is to focus on fruit and drinks first, rather than worrying about the latest probiotic in the supermarket or packing your diet full of different kinds of fibre, says Dr Eirini Dimidi, lead study author. She recommends eating two or three kiwis throughout the day or 8 to 10 prunes to improve constipation.
Skin on or skin off the kiwi? "Even without the skin, it's good and contains fibre," she explains, but adds there's no harm keeping the skin on either.
The crucial mineral is magnesium, which has a laxative effect. And that's why taking magnesium oxide supplements was found to have lots of benefits, according to the research.
Apart from its benefits for alleviating constipation, the vibrant and juicy Kiwi fruit is remarkably nutritious. Here are four more very good reasons to keep a handful ready in your fruit bowl - apart from the fact that they are delicious!



