India, Dec. 3 -- Papaya is often recommended as a gentle way to ease constipation, especially for those seeking a food-based option that supports smoother digestion. Its mix of fiber, natural enzymes, and gut-friendly compounds makes it a practical choice when bowel movements feel slow or difficult. Dr Prarthana Shah, an integrative health coach, explains that constipation isn't simply about "not going to the bathroom." It involves infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often caused by sluggish gut motility, insufficient fibre, low water intake, or disturbances in the gut microbiome. Papaya is usually recommended in many cases because its benefits extend beyond the fiber.

The fruit supports the gut through three key actions: enzymes th...