How Long Does Apple Juice Take To Make You Poop?

Apple juice can stimulate bowel movements within 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on individual digestion and sensitivity to sorbitol in the juice.

Apple juice can be an effective natural remedy for constipation, typically working within 30 minutes to 1 hour. This sweet beverage contains sorbitol, fiber, and fructose that stimulate bowel movements. Let’s explore how apple juice affects digestion and what makes it a popular constipation solution.

Why Apple Juice Makes You Poop

Apple juice contains several compounds that work together to relieve constipation:

Sorbitol Content

Sorbitol is a natural sugar alcohol found in apples. It acts as an osmotic laxative by drawing water into the colon, softening stool and making it easier to pass. Apple juice contains about 0.5-1g of sorbitol per 100ml.

Pro tip: Freshly pressed apple juice retains more sorbitol than store-bought varieties.

Fiber Content

While not as fiber-rich as whole apples, apple juice still contains soluble fiber that aids digestion:

Apple Product	Fiber Content (per cup)
Whole apple	2.4g
Apple juice	0.5g
Applesauce	2.7g

Fructose-Glucose Ratio

Apple juice has a higher fructose-to-glucose ratio than other fruit juices. This imbalance can have a mild laxative effect, especially for those with fructose malabsorption.

How Long Apple Juice Takes To Work

The laxative effect of apple juice typically begins within:

• 30-60 minutes for most adults
• 15-30 minutes for children
• 1-2 hours for severe constipation cases

According to Healthline, apple juice is often recommended for children with constipation due to its gentle effect.

Optimal Dosage For Constipation Relief

Recommended amounts vary by age:

1. Adults: 4-8 ounces (120-240ml)
2. Children: 1 ounce per month of age (max 4oz for infants)
3. Babies over 4 months: 2-4 ounces diluted with water

Warning: Drinking too much apple juice can cause diarrhea. A Reddit user reported explosive diarrhea after drinking half a gallon before a road trip.

Apple Juice vs Other Constipation Remedies

Compared to Prune Juice

While both are effective, prune juice contains:

• More fiber (2.6g per cup)
• Higher sorbitol content
• Additional minerals like potassium

Compared to Whole Apples

Whole apples contain more fiber but may be less effective for immediate relief because:

• Fiber adds bulk rather than softening stool
• The body processes whole fruit more slowly

Tips To Enhance Apple Juice’s Effectiveness

Boost the laxative effect with these methods:

1. Drink it warm first thing in the morning
2. Combine with lemon juice for added vitamin C
3. Follow with a glass of warm water
4. Take a short walk after drinking

When Apple Juice Might Not Work

Apple juice may be less effective if:

• You’re severely dehydrated
• You have chronic constipation
• You consume dairy products immediately after
• You have certain digestive disorders

Potential Side Effects

While generally safe, apple juice can cause:

• Bloating and gas
• Abdominal discomfort
• Diarrhea if consumed in excess
• Blood sugar spikes in diabetics

For best results, choose 100% pure apple juice without added sugars or preservatives. The natural compounds in apple juice work synergistically to provide gentle, effective relief from occasional constipation.