Whether you’re jet-lagged from recent travels, indulged in too many not-so-healthy snacks, or just caught in the clutches of unpredictable digestive patterns, constipation is a universal woe that strikes when you least expect it. It’s a situation that demands immediate action – and, one Instagram user claims to have found the ultimate remedy: the spicy, citrusy cure-all.
In a video that has since gone viral, a user suggests an unconventional approach to alleviating constipation blues. The remedy? An orange, with a dusting of cinnamon and cayenne pepper. According to the video creator, the concoction works like a charm, promising results in just about 5 minutes.
A post shared by Bethany (@lilsipper)
As the video gained popularity with over 23 million views, the comment section became a battleground of opinions. One sceptic humorously suggested, “All that cinnamon and cayenne, you would choke to death before you could even make it to the bathroom lol.”
Meanwhile, a lactose-intolerant user proposed a more dairy-centric solution, “I will drink milk. (I am lactose intolerant.)”
And then there was the blunt, “I couldn’t do it. I almost puked.”
Despite the mixed reactions, the majority of commenters leaned towards more conventional advice, advocating for fibre-rich diets and addressing underlying issues rather than resorting to spicy snacks.
But is there any truth to this spicy orange remedy? The video creator argues that oranges contain naringenin, a flavonoid known to aid constipation. However, as reported by Yahoo News, the studies she references are based on animal trials, leaving us to wonder if the effects would be the same in the human body.
She also mentions capsaicin in cinnamon and cayenne, claiming it stimulates the gastrointestinal tract, but without human studies, we can’t confidently establish that link.
So, should you embark on this spicy citrus adventure? While the remedy might not cause harm and could offer some benefits, it’s essential to consider individual reactions. The orange, both flesh and rind, is a fibre-rich delight, contributing to regular bowel movements and providing hydration.
Sure, orange rinds may carry pesticide residue, but the occasional indulgence is unlikely to cause harm. Washing the orange under warm water before consumption helps minimize any residue concerns. Additionally, capsaicin’s positive impact on gut microbiota is backed by research, promoting healthy digestion, Yahoo News added.
However, proceed with caution if you’re sensitive to capsaicin; excessive consumption may lead to heartburn, diarrhoea or cramping.
If you find joy in the spicy citrus concoction and it helps you stay regular, go ahead and indulge. But if the thought of cinnamon and cayenne-coated oranges makes you queasy, there are plenty of other tried-and-true ways to tackle constipation.
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