Unraveling Chronic Constipation: New Dietary Recommendations
Are you tired of feeling constipated and seeking natural relief? According to groundbreaking guidelines from the British Dietetic Association, there's a simple yet effective solution: kiwis! But wait, there's more to this story. These guidelines, published on Monday, offer a fresh approach to treating chronic constipation, focusing on diet rather than medication.
Chronic constipation, affecting around 16% of adults worldwide, is a common yet often overlooked health issue. It's estimated to be the reason for nearly 2.5 million doctor visits in the U.S. annually, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. The existing guidance, primarily centered around pharmaceuticals, has left many patients seeking more holistic solutions.
Eirini Dimidi, a leading author of the guidelines, highlights the limitations of current dietary advice. "I remember looking at the guidelines and realizing they were quite limited in the number of dietary recommendations," she said. Dimidi, a registered dietitian and associate professor, emphasizes the need for evidence-based dietary solutions.
The new guidelines, jointly published in the Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics and Neurogastroenterology & Motility, offer a comprehensive approach. They analyzed clinical trials and evaluated various methods for managing constipation, providing a more personalized and effective strategy.
Understanding Chronic Constipation
Chronic constipation, defined as fewer than three bowel movements a week lasting over three months, can have a significant impact on an individual's life. Common symptoms include hard or lumpy stool, stomachache, and nausea. More severe cases may involve blood in the stool, fever, and vomiting.
It's a widespread issue, affecting people of all ages, genders, and races. Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, a registered dietitian, confirms its prevalence, "I see chronic constipation across the spectrum, from toddlers to adults."
Traditional Treatments and Their Limitations
Traditional treatments often focus on increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, and using laxatives. However, these methods may not provide long-term relief. Dr. William Chey, a professor of gastroenterology, notes that most studies have centered on fiber supplements and medications, with limited success.
The New Recommendations
The guidelines introduce a range of dietary and supplement options:
- Fiber Supplements: Aim for over 10 grams of fiber daily, gradually increasing the dosage. This can improve stool frequency and reduce straining.
- Probiotics: Certain strains, like B. lactis and Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2, may offer benefits. Patients should take a supplement for at least four weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Magnesium Oxide: 0.5-1.5 grams daily can enhance stool frequency, reduce bloating, and improve overall quality of life.
- Kiwis: Eating three kiwis daily, with or without the skin, can improve stool frequency but not consistency.
- Rye Bread: Six to eight slices of rye bread daily may aid in stool frequency, though the authors acknowledge the practicality of this recommendation.
- High Mineral-Content Water: 0.5-1.5 liters daily, combined with other treatments, can be beneficial. Magnesium, a key mineral, acts as a laxative.
A Controversial Take on Probiotics
Dr. Chey expresses caution regarding probiotics, noting the variability in people's microbiomes. "It's very hard to make generalizable statements about specific probiotics," he says, highlighting the need for personalized approaches.
Empowering Patients
The authors hope these guidelines will empower individuals with chronic constipation. Dimidi emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, "We hope these guidelines will empower clinicians to provide personalized advice and patients to take control of their symptoms."
As Kaan Ozcan, an intern with NBC News, concludes, these new recommendations offer a promising step towards managing chronic constipation, providing a more holistic and personalized approach to a common health issue.
