Do Cherries Help You Poop?

As cherry season arrives, the discussions around them inevitably begin. People share their favorite cherry dishes, recount cherry-pitting competitions, and someone always asks, 'Can cherries really make you poop?' Well, maybe not exactly in those words, but it's a common question, especially when videos like this one pop up on social media. To get to the bottom of it, we reached out to Registered Dietitians for their expert opinions on whether cherries truly have this effect. Here's what they revealed.

A Quick Food Science Overview

To answer any question about bowel movements, we need to dive into some science. You may have tuned out during this part of school, but understanding the science behind digestion can shed light on how our bodies work, especially when it comes to pooping. First, let's review: your digestive system is a group of organs that collaborate to break down the food you eat. The process begins as soon as you chew your food, and continues as it passes through different organs, where it's broken down further into useful and waste components. Nutrients are absorbed by the body, while anything indigestible moves through to exit as urine and feces (the technical term for poop).

Do Cherries Have an Effect on Bowel Movements?

Now that we've covered how digestion works, let's look at how cherries come into play. Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD, author of "Fueling Male Fertility", points out that cherries, like most fruits, are a good source of fiber. Cherries contain insoluble fiber, a carbohydrate that our bodies can’t break down. This fiber can't be absorbed, so it moves through the digestive system, helping to push out waste and adding bulk to your stool. Qula Madkin, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES explains that eating fiber-rich foods like cherries supports gut health. The insoluble fiber also nurtures good gut bacteria and promotes regular bowel movements. Additionally, this type of fiber absorbs water, making stool softer and easier to pass.

Does One Type of Cherry Help More with Bowel Movements Than Another?

Luckily, both sweet and tart cherries offer similar nutritional benefits. Manaker notes that tart cherries have slightly less fiber than their sweet counterparts, but both types are excellent for supporting digestion. 'When choosing between them, it may come down to personal taste or how you plan to prepare them,' says Madkin. 'No matter which variety you pick, adding cherries to your diet can provide numerous health benefits, including better bowel movements.'

Final Thoughts

Yes, cherries can certainly help keep things moving, but if you're not a fan, don't stress, says Manaker. There are plenty of other fiber-packed fruits that also support healthy digestion. Since many people don't get enough fruit each day, she advises not to focus solely on cherries. All fruits have a place in a balanced diet. If you're looking to improve your digestion and bowel regularity, Madkin suggests incorporating a range of fiber-rich foods into your meals. Don't forget to stay hydrated and add some physical activity to your routine. And remember, fresh summer cherries are just the perfect finishing touch to your healthy habits!