New Guidelines Offer Dietary Approaches to Tackle Chronic Constipation
[City, State] – For years, a high-fiber diet has been the go-to advice for relieving constipation. However, new clinical guidelines reveal surprisingly limited evidence supporting fiber specifically for chronic constipation, prompting a shift towards a more nuanced approach. Experts are now outlining several dietary interventions that show promise, ranging from specific breads to probiotic supplements.
The guidelines, recently released, acknowledge the overall health benefits of a high-fiber diet – including a reduced risk of colorectal cancer – but emphasize the lack of robust data proving its effectiveness against persistent constipation. “We were expecting a lot more evidence on a high-fiber diet, and there simply isn’t enough in constipation,” explained Dr. Samantha Dimidi,involved in developing the guidelines. “But when it comes to constipation, specifically, we just don’t have enough evidence to say that it improves constipation.”
Rather,the recommendations focus on several alternatives,offering a “valuable road map” for those seeking relief while awaiting a consultation with their primary care physician,according to Dr.William Chey, who was not involved in the guideline creation. For more severe cases, a visit to a gastroenterologist is still advised.
Here’s a breakdown of the dietary recommendations:
* Fiber Supplements: Consuming over 10 grams of fiber supplements daily - such as psyllium – can improve stool frequency and consistency, and lessen straining. Gradual introduction and dosage increases are crucial.
* Probiotics: Certain strains, including B. lactis and bacillus coagulans Unique IS2, may alleviate symptoms for some individuals.Patients are advised to choose a supplement and follow manufacturer instructions for at least four weeks. However, Dr. Chey cautioned that the variability of individual microbiomes makes broad probiotic recommendations challenging. “People’s microbiomes… vary a lot…and so it’s very hard to make any generalizable statements about the use of specific probiotics.”
* Magnesium Oxide Supplements: A daily dose of 0.5-1.5 grams can improve stool frequency and consistency, reduce bloating and abdominal pain, and enhance overall quality of life. Starting at 0.5 grams and increasing weekly is recommended.
* Kiwis: Eating three kiwis daily, with or without the skin, can improve stool frequency.
* Rye Bread: Six to eight slices of rye bread per day may also aid stool frequency, though the guidelines acknowledge this amount might potentially be impractical for some.
* High Mineral-Content Water: Consuming 0.5-1.5 liters daily, in conjunction with other treatments, may provide relief, potentially due to the laxative effect of minerals like magnesium.
Dr. Dimidi expressed hope that these guidelines will “empower” individuals struggling with chronic constipation. “We’re hoping [the guidance] means that clinicians are very well-informed and can provide personalized advice to their patients that is very effective,” she said. “But also that people themselves with constipation can access now evidence-based details, feel empowered to take control of the symptoms and improve a condition that has a tremendous impact on quality of life.”
