How Mediterranean and Plant-Based Diets Can Help Prevent Chronic Constipation in Older Adults

As people age, the likelihood of experiencing chronic constipation increases, impacting quality of life and overall well-being. Recent research from Mass General Brigham has investigated how different dietary patterns influence the risk of developing this common gastrointestinal issue in middle- and older-aged adults. The study analyzed data from over 96,000 individuals across several years, focusing on the connection between their eating habits and the incidence of chronic constipation, defined as experiencing symptoms for at least 12 weeks within a year.

The findings revealed that adherence to a Mediterranean or plant-based diet was associated with a significantly reduced risk of developing chronic constipation. Interestingly, this protective effect was independent of fiber intake, which is traditionally thought to be the primary dietary factor influencing bowel health. Conversely, diets characterized as Western or inflammatory were linked to a higher likelihood of constipation, while low-carb diets showed no strong impact.

The researchers suggest that consuming a diet rich in vegetables, nuts, and healthy fats can serve as a preventive measure against constipation in older adults. These insights offer promising guidance for dietary choices that can improve gut health beyond the well-known cardiovascular benefits of these diets.

Senior author Dr. Kyle Staller emphasizes that healthy eating patterns could provide multiple benefits for aging populations, particularly in maintaining digestive health. This study marks a significant step in understanding how nutrition can actively prevent gastrointestinal conditions, not just manage their symptoms.

The research was published in the journal Gastroenterology and utilized data from well-established health studies, including the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. The results underscore the importance of adopting healthy dietary habits early to promote long-term gastrointestinal health.