21 July 2023 , 19:44
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Chronic constipation is associated with cognitive decline and could be a risk factor for dementia, new research has found.
Scientists discovered that among more than 110,000 middle-aged and older adults, those who experienced fewer than three bowel movements a week also showed signs of an "older" brain.
When comparing data with people who had regular bowel movements, researchers found that those experiencing constipation typically performed worse on tests of memory and thinking - the equivalent of three years of aging. Researchers said people with constipation were also 73% more likely to say their cognitive skills were waning.
The findings were presented this week at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Amsterdam but are considered preliminary - and do not prove that constipation per se causes the aging brain to deteriorate faster.
Constipation and dementia could be linked, according to the study (Stock photo) (Getty Images)However, experts said the study adds to evidence connecting gut health to brain health.
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Senior study author Dr Dong Wang said: "These results stress the importance of clinicians discussing gut health, especially constipation, with their older patients."
Heather M. Snyder, Ph.D., Alzheimer's Association vice president of medical and scientific relations, said: "Our body systems are all interconnected. When one system is malfunctioning, it impacts other systems. When that dysfunction isn't addressed, it can create a waterfall of consequences for the rest of the body.
"Still, there are a lot of unanswered questions about the connection between the health of our digestive system and our long-term cognitive function. Answering these questions may uncover novel therapeutic and risk-reduction approaches for Alzheimer's and other dementias."
She added: "Eating well and taking care of your gut may be a pathway to reduce risk of dementia."
A previous study published in February found that around 16% of the world's population struggles with constipation - and that prevalence is even higher among older adults due to a number of factors such as fibre-deficient diets, lack of exercise and the use of certain drugs that could cause constipation.
Chronic constipation is defined when you have not had a poo at least three times in a week, your poo is often large and dry and you are straining or in pain when having a poo.
The NHS explains that making some simple changes to your diet and lifestyle can help treat constipation. They include drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding alcohol, increasing your fibre intake and adding wheat bran, oats or linseed to your diet.