Chronic constipation is an issue that affects up to 20% of adults in the United States. It causes discomfort and changes the quality of life for many individuals. People can develop constipation through a multitude of ways, including not consuming enough water, having a low fiber diet, and having an underlying medical condition. Symptoms of chronic constipation include infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stools, and excessive exertion needed for bowel movements. As chronic constipation continues in individuals, it can lead to health issues such as hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, and fecal impaction.
Many supplements, foods, and remedies are marketed as ways to control bowel movements, but with so many options, it can be overwhelming to find out what is truly best. A new study’s guidelines are evidence-based recommendations for what dietary interventions may help with chronic constipation. The researchers of the study analyzed 75 participants to come up with their recommendations for this issue. They used trials that encompassed various approaches to constipation treatment, including food and supplements, among other treatments.
The researchers developed 59 statements that were recommendations for how to naturally treat bowel movements, but only statements that had an 85% agreement were approved. Some things that individuals can do to manage their chronic constipation are to consume kiwifruit, high mineral-content water, and magnesium oxide. The experts recommend eating two to three kiwifruit a day for 4 weeks, as kiwifruit was determined to be more effective at “increasing stool frequency.” Additionally, kiwi contains a high amount of fiber and an enzyme called actinidin, which helps with protein digestion.
As for the mineral water recommendation, the researchers advised that individuals drink ½ a liter to 1 ½ liters per day for two to six weeks in order to manage their constipation issues. This type of water is high in magnesium as well as sulfate and draws in water to the intestines, softening stools and making it easier to pass. Magnesium oxide was another recommendation, albeit a non-food item, as it increases stool frequency and softens stool consistency. Researchers also found limited evidence for probiotics and senna supplements for managing chronic constipation.
These guidelines are a step forward for managing chronic constipation and separating fact from fiction. It is recommended that individuals pick one strategy at a time and track their symptoms rather than trying out a multitude of different techniques. However, it is also important to consider the study’s limitations, which include having a relatively small sample size of only 75 participants. Therefore, while more research is needed on this topic, the early findings show that these guidelines can help manage chronic constipation.
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