Does eating oranges with peels help with bowel movements?

Some people on social media suggest a quick way to help your digestion is by eating whole oranges, including peels, along with cinnamon and cayenne powder.

Instagram user Bethany Ugarte-Cameron, who shares recipes for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) on @LilSipper, claims that unpeeled orange slices can make you poop.

Oranges, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon are healthy foods, and citrus fruits have a lot of fiber, which is good for your bowels.

Whole oranges are a good source of both fiber and water, which can help with constipation. An orange with its peel is 82% water and has 7 grams of fiber, meeting about 28% of the daily value recommended for women and 18% for men aged 19 to 50.

Oranges are generally good for you and don’t usually make you feel sick, even though they’re a healthy part of your diet.

However, the fiber in orange peels is not particularly special compared to other fibers, according to Amy Brownstein, a registered dietitian. Orange peels can be bitter and tough, which is why many people don’t eat them, and there are safety concerns.

Instead of just oranges, you can also increase your fiber intake by eating whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.

Remember to drink enough liquids, as staying hydrated also helps with regular bowel movements. Increasing your water intake by carrying a water bottle with you can make a difference in your bowel habits.