What is a recommended drink to encourage for a patient with constipation?

Encouraging a patient with constipation to drink water is a key recommendation due to its vital role in maintaining hydration and supporting digestive health. Water helps to soften stool and promotes regular bowel movements by aiding the digestive process. When a person is well-hydrated, their body is more capable of effectively moving waste through the intestines, which can alleviate constipation.

Other beverages, such as caffeinated drinks and low-calorie sodas, can have a diuretic effect or contain added sugars and artificial ingredients that may not support digestive health. While fruity juices can provide some hydration and may contain natural sugars that stimulate digestion, they can also be high in calories and sugars, which is not ideal compared to plain water. Therefore, water remains the top recommendation for encouraging regular bowel movements and managing constipation effectively.