Without Imprunity?

December 4, 2008 6:26 PM

Is a 12oz. glass of prune juice daily harmful? (mild disclaimer - digestive details to follow inside)

I suffer from the "H" in the medicated cream Preparation H, and "daily traffic" most of the time is difficult and painful.

When I asked my Dr. if I need surgery or treatment for the Hemorrhoids all he said was to increase my fiber, vegetables and water intake, which I have done, but the movements are still quite uncomfortable, painful and distressing.

I've tried different fiber additives to my diet over time and the best result I have ever gotten was from drinking a glass of prune juice in the evening. Ninety minutes later it's like someone yelled fire in the theatre of my southern regions and the bum rush ensues which is quite soft, satisfying and most importantly pain free.

But I have read online that prunes have a natural chemical which over time is the same as being dependent on laxatives which is dangerous to the bowels. I asked my doctor and he said prune juice is safe and there is no harm at all. He just dismissed me and said it's juice and has fiber and potassium and it's great no problem at all.

Should I get a second opinion? or am i overthinking this and go with what works.

posted by stavx to health & fitness (9 comments total)

Prune juice is a stimulant laxative and you may become dependent on it with regular use. For long-term use, try a docusate capsule immediately after each meal.
posted by neuron at 7:01 PM on December 4, 2008

Would you rather become dependent on prunes, on docusate, or on preparation H? If your hemorrhoids get better, you'll have more leeway to wean yourself off whatever stool softener you use. Prioritize.
posted by fantabulous timewaster at 7:36 PM on December 4, 2008

This link has some good alternative information about some natural remedies that you might want to consider.

Hope that your condition improves quickly.
posted by blast at 8:11 PM on December 4, 2008

Even if you become dependent on the prune juice, it's a very healthy thing to be dependent on. Even if you continue to drink it for the rest of your life, it won't harm you.
posted by amyms at 8:12 PM on December 4, 2008

If your 'roids are not improving with dietary changes, that's not a good sign. I would get back to your doctor, and perhaps get a second opinion. When was your last prostate exam?

(There are other things you can do yourself such as increasing your activity level. Do some waist-twisting exercises, or a series of half-sit-ups, every day for a week. But not getting better worries.)
posted by dhartung at 9:48 PM on December 4, 2008

As far as I know, we are in no danger of running out of prunes. If it works for you, then why not go for it? There are far worse things in life (and I'm sure hemorrhoids are one of them) than needing to drink a glass of prune juice a day to stay happily regular. Why fix it if it ain't broke?
posted by The Light Fantastic at 1:11 AM on December 5, 2008

If you are looking to add fiber variety for your troubles, you should give flax seeds a try. I get whole, roasted seeds from TJs and 1 - 2 TBSP does the trick.

The flavor is kinda funky until you get used to it, but at least it doesn't have the cloying sweetness of prune juice.
posted by Orrorin at 1:53 AM on December 5, 2008

A bowl of steel cut or old fashioned oatmeal everyday really works (instant oatmeal doesn't work). It's all fiber and then you wouldn't have to worry about the laxative qualities of prune juice.
posted by gt2 at 6:03 AM on December 5, 2008

Well... My mom had each of our family drink 8 oz of prune juice for every breakfast. Adjusting for my weight as a child, that's way more than your portion. We ate a lot of oatmeal too. When I left for college, I ceased that regimen with no problems at all. Your mucilage may vary.
posted by gregoreo at 8:36 AM on December 5, 2008