In our exclusive interview, Dr. Irteza Inayat, a gastroenterologist and Digestive Health Institute Medical Director at AdventHealth Central Florida Division, reinforced much of Dr. Huang’s advice. “Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is key for prompt bowel movements due to their high fiber content,” Dr. Inayat told us. Offering his own specific food suggestions, Dr. Inayat encouraged the consumption of artichokes, dates, broccoli, chickpeas, pumpkin, whole-grain crackers, brown rice, almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and many more.
“The efficacy of these foods in promoting bowel movements lies in their high fiber content,” Dr. Inayat explained. Yet fiber often gets overlooked when it comes to diet. “The typical American diet falls short in fiber, averaging 10-15 grams daily, whereas the recommended intake is 20-35 grams,” he said, emphasizing the importance of both soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. “Soluble fiber, sourced from brans, fruit, oatmeal, oat bran, psyllium, and vegetables, helps in water retention in the stool, making it easier to pass,” he stated. “Insoluble fiber, which is found in cereals, wheat bran, and whole grains, aids in adding bulk to stool.”