Randomised clinical trial: dried plums (prunes) vs. psyllium for constipation
Attaluri A
Published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Methodology
Eight-week single-blind randomised crossover trial with a 1-week washout; dried plums 50 g twice daily versus psyllium 11 g twice daily; daily symptom and stool diaries with complete spontaneous bowel movements per week as primary outcome.
Key Findings
40 adults with chronic constipation (37 women, mean age 38) completed a crossover trial of dried plums (50 g twice daily) versus psyllium (11 g twice daily), each matched at 6 g fibre/day for 3 weeks. Complete spontaneous bowel movements per week, the primary outcome, and stool consistency scores improved significantly more with dried plums than psyllium (p < 0.05). Straining and global constipation symptoms did not differ between treatments, and both were rated equally palatable, safe and well tolerated.
Conclusions
Dried plums are safe, palatable and more effective than psyllium for the treatment of mild to moderate constipation, and should be considered as a first line therapy.
Limitations
Only 40 participants, overwhelmingly women, single-blind rather than double-blind, 3 weeks per treatment period, and no untreated control arm.
Supplements Studied
Dried plums are safe, palatable and more effective than psyllium for the treatment of mild to moderate constipation, and should be considered as a first line therapy.
Outcomes Measured
Dried plums (prunes) have been used traditionally for constipation but their efficacy is not known.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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