Digestive Health News: How Kiwis Can Help Relieve Chronic Constipation

Recent dietary guidelines co-published on October 13 by the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics and Neurogastroenterology & Motility suggest that kiwifruit, rye bread, and mineral-rich water can effectively relieve chronic constipation. This condition affects approximately 1 in 6 to 7 individuals globally, with 9% to 20% of American adults encountering chronic idiopathic constipation, where the causes remain undetermined.Symptoms of chronic constipation include infrequent bowel movements and hard stools. Dr. Eirini Dimidi, the lead author, emphasized that these guidelines bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, enabling more precise dietary recommendations. The guidelines focus on specific beneficial foods rather than just increasing fiber intake.Kiwifruit stands out as it’s easy to incorporate; two to three fruits can be consumed daily. They assist in promoting stool regularity and enhancing digestion. Other beneficial options include prunes, flaxseeds, and yogurt, alongside physical activity to improve digestive health.