Kiwifruit, rye bread, and high-salt mineral water help relieve symptoms of chronic constipation by improving stool frequency and consistency. Specialists from King's College London came to this conclusion. Their study was published in the journal Neurogastroenterology & Motility (NeuroMo).
In their study, the scientists analyzed about 75 previously published clinical studies. The results showed that in addition to the above foods, supplements containing psyllium husk, certain probiotic strains, and magnesium oxide were also effective. These supplements have helped regulate bowel function and improve overall well-being.
The authors emphasized that, contrary to popular advice, increasing fiber intake does not always produce positive results. Dietary fiber is a component of plant foods that is not digested by digestive enzymes.
Fiber is classified as soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber turns into a gel-like substance when exposed to water, while insoluble fiber passes through the digestive tract almost unchanged.
A meta-analysis found that the recommendation to increase the intake of dietary fiber does not have convincing evidence, unless the type of fiber and the individual characteristics of patients are taken into account.
The researchers conclude that the new guidelines will help doctors more accurately choose non-drug treatment strategies and help patients manage symptoms through diet without the need for constant use of laxatives.
