DEAR READER: I believe the recipe you are looking for is that of my colon cocktail. It consists of equal portions of applesauce, prune juice and bran. One to 2 tablespoons taken daily in the morning should relieve symptoms of constipation. I often advise that it be made in small batches in order to keep it fresh because it does not have a long shelf life. It must also be stored in the refrigerator.

Other home remedies include a mug of warm water a half-hour before breakfast each morning, warm apple juice, prune juice (warm or cold), whole prunes, powdered fiber drink mixes and even consuming more raw fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Constipation and Diarrhea.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.