The British Dietetic Association released the first comprehensive, evidence-based dietary guidelines for adults with chronic constipation, co-published in Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics and Neurogastroenterology & Motility. The document drew on four systematic reviews and 75 randomized controlled trials.
Chronic constipation affected about 20 percent of Americans and 16 percent of adults worldwide, causing roughly 2.5 million U.S. doctor visits each year. Defined by fewer than three bowel movements a week, straining, hard or lumpy stools, or a sense of incomplete evacuation, the disorder can limit activity, work productivity, and well-being.
“Chronic constipation can have a huge impact on someone's day-to-day life. For the first time, we've provided direction on what dietary approaches could genuinely help, and which diet advice lacks evidence,” said Dr. Eirini Dimidi, Reader in Nutritional Sciences at King’s College London and lead author of the guidelines, according to Newsweek. She added that dietary change could let people manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
The review offered little support for a generic high-fiber plan but identified specific foods and supplements that helped. “Our research reveals some new dietary strategies that could indeed help patients,” said Dimidi, according to Newsweek.
Kiwi fruit topped the list. The panel advised eating two or three kiwis daily for at least four weeks; the fruit worked without its peel, though consuming the skin raised fiber content by up to 50 percent, noted dietitian Dr. Sammie Gill, according to Newsweek.
Professor Kevin Whelan of King’s College London called the guidance a step toward giving clinicians and patients more control through diet, BBC News reported.
Further recommendations covered rye bread, 0.5 to 1.5 liters of mineral water rich in sulfates, magnesium, calcium, and sodium, and several supplements. Magnesium oxide starting at 0.5 grams daily and titrated upward eased abdominal pain, bloating, and straining while improving stool frequency and consistency. At least 10 grams of psyllium fiber offered similar gains. Strains such as Bifidobacterium lactis and Bacillus coagulans IS2 showed promise, though data remained limited for many other probiotics.
Senna and several traditional remedies lacked convincing evidence. The authors urged further study of fermented foods, coffee, and vitamin C. Each recommendation carried a GRADE rating for evidence and strength.
The association funded the project and released a tool to help clinicians apply the advice. Chronic constipation often keeps patients from exercise because of pain and bloating, said Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, according to NBC News.
The guidelines told patients to focus first on fruit—especially kiwi—and mineral water before adding probiotics or multiple fiber sources. Anyone starting magnesium or fiber supplements should begin with a low dose, increase slowly, and drink enough fluid; people with kidney disease or certain prescriptions need medical guidance.
Untreated constipation can lead to hemorrhoids, fissures, and, in severe cases, fecal impaction, so the dietary roadmap offered a non-pharmacological first line while patients wait for specialist care.
The preparation of this article relied on a news-analysis system.