Constipation risk in older adults may be eased through diet, according to a major new study. Published in the Gastroenterology journal, the research involved nearly 96,000 adults with an average age of 72.5.
“Ageing adults who follow Mediterranean or plant-based diets may significantly reduce their risk of chronic constipation,” said Dr. Kyle Staller, the study’s lead author.
Recognise the Healthcare Burden Caused by Constipation in Seniors
Dr. Kyle Staller noted the far-reaching effects of constipation among ageing populations. “Chronic constipation is highly prevalent in older adults and significantly impairs quality of life,” he said. “It also imposes a substantial burden on the healthcare system… identifying accessible, preventive strategies … [is] essential to reduce both personal suffering and healthcare utilization.”
Understand How Ageing Slows Gastrointestinal Function
Chronic constipation affects roughly 15% of the global population, with prevalence rising to 30% in adults over 60. “When we get older, most of the movement in the body gets slower, and that does not exclude the colon,” explained Dr. Ashkan Farhadi. “It’s not surprising that people get more constipated as they get older.” He described the study as “a strong, important, fact-based piece of information that we can use to help to counter that constipation.”
Dietary Patterns to Identify Constipation Risk Factors
Researchers analysed five different dietary patterns: the Mediterranean diet, plant-based dietary index (PDI), low-carbohydrate diet, Western diet, and empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP). The Mediterranean and plant-based diets stood out for their protective effects.
“This finding highlights the potential for long-term adherence to diets rich in vegetables, nuts, and healthy fats to lower the risk of chronic constipation, independent of total fiber intake,” Staller said.
Participants who followed the Western and inflammatory diets—rich in processed foods, red meats, and refined grains—were more likely to suffer from constipation. “Our data suggest that diets high in processed foods, red meats, and refined grains… may increase the risk of chronic constipation,” Staller added.
Gut Health Benefits of Fibre-Rich Diets
Researchers believe that the protective effects of Mediterranean and plant-based diets are tied to gut health. “These diets may work by modulating the gut microbiome, increasing short-chain fatty acid production, and reducing systemic inflammation — all of which contribute to improved gut motility and function,” said Staller.
He noted that future research may explore the microbiome profiles of individuals on these diets to better understand how dietary choices influence digestive health.
Practical Nutritional Advice to Support Digestive Regularity
Registered dietitian Monique Richarde recommendations include eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and magnesium-rich foods, staying hydrated, incorporating healthy fats and polyphenols, engaging in daily movement like walking or yoga, and keeping consistent mealtimes.
“Real food, regular meals, and rest are non-negotiables in supporting gut health and effective elimination,” Richard added. Healthcare systems are under increasing strain, and researchers say lifestyle changes may ease the load. The study finds that even modest dietary adjustments can help manage chronic conditions in older adults.
“The freedom to age well lies not in prescriptions,” the study suggests, “but in informed, consistent lifestyle decisions built on evidence.”