Why different foods can change your bowels

We all know caffeine stimulates the brain, but what we don’t know is that it can also jumpstart the other systems of the body. High concentration of caffeine in coffee increases peristalsis and digestion. Besides, coffee is believed to increase production of a hormone called gastrin in the stomach, thereby, promoting motor activity in the colon.

Consuming large amounts of cheese may slow down your digestive system, making you constipated. This happens due to high fat content and low fibre content in it. Moreover, people who already have constipation should avoid eating cheese as it contains lactose, which can cause gas.

Prunes are loaded with fibre that not only helps increase the bulk of stool, but also helps increase concentration of sorbitol, a natural laxative which draws water into the large intestine to improve bowel movements.

Red meat contains high content of proteins, but does not have much fibre. This slows down the process of digestion, making you constipated.  Moreover, it contains protein fibres that can be easily digested by our bodies.

Avocadoes are loaded with magnesium, an element that helps relax muscles and boosts bowel movements by drawing water to soften the stool. Image Source: Getty