What should you know about prunes at night for constipation?

Prunes contain fibre, which adds bulk and supports movement through the bowel, plus sorbitol, which draws water into stool. Eating them in the evening is reasonable if they do not cause bloating or disturb sleep; the time of day is less important than regular intake and your overall pattern. Constipation can also reflect low fluid intake, reduced activity, dietary change, medicines or conditions such as an underactive thyroid.

Introduce prunes gradually and drink fluids regularly unless a clinician has given you a fluid restriction. Pair fibre-rich foods with movement and respond to the urge to open your bowels. If prunes cause gas, reduce the amount and increase fibre more slowly. Do not rely on home measures when constipation is new and persistent, follows a medicine change, or keeps returning. A clinician or nutrition professional can help tailor food, fluids and any laxative safely.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass stool and gas, or blood in the stool. Arrange a review for unexplained weight loss, persistent constipation, a change in bowel habit, or symptoms of dehydration such as dizziness and very dark urine.

Ask whether a medicine, thyroid problem or bowel condition may be contributing, how much fibre and fluid suits you, and when a laxative or testing should be considered.