Q. I have suffered with constipation for more than a year and have had little success finding relief. Someone suggested that I eat an entire red pepper daily. This certainly does not appeal to me, but I am feeling desperate and would try it if you say it would help. I take Bentyl, digoxin, Norpace, Tegretol, Coumadin and prochlorperazine. Is there any way to alleviate this problem?
A. Some of the medicines you are taking could be contributing to your constipation woes. Although your doctor may not be able to substitute alternatives, you should discuss this problem with her before trying to counteract this drug-induced complication.
It is unlikely that a red pepper would solve your constipation problems. Chewing sugarless gum may help. You might also try “Power Pudding.” Mix 1 cup coarse bran, 1 cup applesauce and 3/4 cup prune juice. Take one or two tablespoons daily with plenty of water. Refrigerate the remainder. Do not take this within two hours of digoxin, however, since the extra fiber could interfere with proper absorption of your heart medicine.
For more details about this special remedy, our dynamite pumpkin bran muffin recipe, 10 tips to combat constipation and a list of drugs that can cause it we are sending you our Guide to Constipation.
