Kiwifruit, Rye Bread, and Mineral-Rich Water May Alleviate Chronic Constipation

This is grounded in the inaugural evidence presented in the Dietary guidelines for adults experiencing chronic constipation. Published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics and the Neurogastroenterology and Motility, the new guidelines highlight that incorporating psyllium fiber supplements, specific probiotic strains, and magnesium oxide supplements may enhance constipation relief.

Constipation is a persistent condition that significantly affects quality of life and places a considerable economic strain on both individuals and healthcare systems.

Previous clinical guidelines offered limited and often outdated dietary advice, such as suggestions to increase fiber and fluid intake.

In contrast to older guidelines, the latest recommendations are founded on several thorough systematic reviews and meta-analyses, employing the GRADE framework to evaluate evidence quality.

Professor Kevin Whelan from King’s College London stated, “This new guidance represents a positive development towards empowering health professionals and their patients to manage constipation via dietary means.”

“This means individuals worldwide suffering from constipation can now receive current advice based on the best available evidence to enhance their symptoms and health outcomes.”

“With ongoing research, we have a genuine opportunity to significantly improve quality of life.”

Professor Whelan and his team analyzed over 75 clinical trials, formulating 59 recommendations and pinpointing 12 key research priorities.

“Chronic constipation can greatly influence your daily routine,” noted Dr. Eirini Dimidi from King’s College London.

“For the first time, we outline effective dietary strategies and identify advice lacking robust evidence.”

“By improving this condition through dietary modifications, individuals can better manage their symptoms and, hopefully, enhance their quality of life.”

The recommendations also examine constipation outcomes like stool frequency, consistency, straining, and overall quality of life, thereby allowing for more tailored care based on individual symptoms.

Clinician-friendly resources have also been created to facilitate the implementation of these guidelines in practices globally.

An analysis of the evidence indicates that while certain foods and supplements provide benefits, the overall quality of existing research remains low.

Most studies have concentrated narrowly on single interventions instead of comprehensive dietary strategies, emphasizing the pressing need for improved nutritional research in managing constipation.

“Adopting a high-fiber diet offers numerous health benefits and is generally advised for constipation,” Dr. Dimidi stated.

“However, our guidelines indicate insufficient evidence to confirm that it is effective, particularly for constipation.”

“Instead, our research has revealed some novel dietary strategies that may genuinely assist patients.”

“Simultaneously, there is an urgent necessity for high-quality trials to reinforce our understanding of what works and what doesn’t.”