By Lindsay Edwards

Constipation can be a real discomfort for anyone. There are many foods that act as natural laxatives. Some of the most common natural laxatives include:

• Fiber: it helps to bulk up stools and, when consumed with plenty of water, starts mobility in the intestine. High-fiber foods include whole grains, fruits, peas, and beans.

• Fruit juice: apple, pear, and grape fruit juices are particularly effective in young children because they're high in naturally occurring sugars that are difficult for young intestines to digest. Use only a little of these juices to help with constipation, since they can often cause loose stools and diarrhea.

• Prunes: they naturally stimulate contractions of the intestines to remove waste products. Prunes also attract water to the intestinal area.

• Fluids: drink plenty of fluids to soften stools. Avoid any liquid with caffeine, because caffeine acts as a diuretic.