1
|
Lai S, Zhu C, Zhou X, Zeng Q, Huang L, Cao X, Zhou Q, Zhong Y, Huang J, Liu J, Zeng G, Chen H. Effect of Physical Activity on the Association Between Diet and Constipation: Evidence From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007-2010. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2024; 30:322-331. [PMID: 38972867 PMCID: PMC11238098 DOI: 10.5056/jnm23134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Previous studies have shown that diet and physical activity can influence constipation. However, the combined effect of diet and physical activity on constipation remains unclear. Methods Constipation was defined based on stool consistency and frequency, while overall diet quality was assessed using Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015 scores. Participants were categorized into low (metabolic equivalent [MET]-min/wk < 500) and high physical activity groups (MET-min/wk ≥ 500). The association between diet and constipation across physical activity groups was analyzed using survey logistic regression and restricted cubic splines. Results Higher HEI-2015 scores were associated with reduced constipation risk in the high physical activity group when constipation was defined by stool consistency (odds ratio [OR], 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.97-0.99). However, in the low physical activity group, increased HEI-2015 scores did not significantly affect constipation risk (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.97-1.05). Similar results were found when constipation was defined based on stool frequency. In the high physical activity group, increased HEI-2015 scores were significantly associated with a reduced constipation risk (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.94-0.98). Conversely, in the low physical activity group, increased HEI-2015 scores did not affect the risk of constipation (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.90-1.03). Conclusions Our findings suggest that a higher HEI-2015 score is negatively associated with constipation among individuals with high physical activity levels but not among those with low physical activity levels. This association was consistent when different definitions of constipation were used. These results highlight the importance of combining healthy diet with regular physical activity to alleviate constipation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shijun Lai
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Changdong Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ganzhou Hospital of Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Ganzhou Municipal Hospital, Ganzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhou
- General Surgery Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Qingfeng Zeng
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Lihua Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Cao
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Qiang Zhou
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Yuhua Zhong
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Jinjing Huang
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Jianlan Liu
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Guifang Zeng
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alagiakrishnan K, Morgadinho J, Halverson T. Approach to the diagnosis and management of dysbiosis. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1330903. [PMID: 38706561 PMCID: PMC11069313 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1330903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
All microorganisms like bacteria, viruses and fungi that reside within a host environment are considered a microbiome. The number of bacteria almost equal that of human cells, however, the genome of these bacteria may be almost 100 times larger than the human genome. Every aspect of the physiology and health can be influenced by the microbiome living in various parts of our body. Any imbalance in the microbiome composition or function is seen as dysbiosis. Different types of dysbiosis are seen and the corresponding symptoms depend on the site of microbial imbalance. The contribution of the intestinal and extra-intestinal microbiota to influence systemic activities is through interplay between different axes. Whole body dysbiosis is a complex process involving gut microbiome and non-gut related microbiome. It is still at the stage of infancy and has not yet been fully understood. Dysbiosis can be influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle habits, diet including ultra-processed foods and food additives, as well as medications. Dysbiosis has been associated with many systemic diseases and cannot be diagnosed through standard blood tests or investigations. Microbiota derived metabolites can be analyzed and can be useful in the management of dysbiosis. Whole body dysbiosis can be addressed by altering lifestyle factors, proper diet and microbial modulation. The effect of these interventions in humans depends on the beneficial microbiome alteration mostly based on animal studies with evolving evidence from human studies. There is tremendous potential for the human microbiome in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of diseases, as well as, for the monitoring of health and disease in humans. Whole body system-based approach to the diagnosis of dysbiosis is better than a pure taxonomic approach. Whole body dysbiosis could be a new therapeutic target in the management of various health conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Joao Morgadinho
- Kaye Edmonton Clinic, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Tyler Halverson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chowdhury K, Sinha S, Kumar S, Haque M, Ahmad R. Constipation: A Pristine Universal Pediatric Health Delinquent. Cureus 2024; 16:e52551. [PMID: 38249647 PMCID: PMC10797657 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Constipation suffered by children is a global public health problem. Functional constipation (FC) brings about deteriorating effects in the children's lives who suffer from it. The risk factors for the development of constipation include the consumption of a diet low in fiber and high in calories (such as the consumption of fast food), a sedentary lifestyle with a lack of exercise, a family history of constipation, and emotional and psychological stress endured by children in their families. It is one of the most common causes of stomachaches in children. FC may lead to fecal incontinence (FI), anal fissures, recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTI), and enuresis in children. Severe constipation may result in stool becoming rock-hard and inflexible in the rectum, which is clinically identified as fecal impaction. It is imperative to perform clinical evaluation and treatment, including pharmacological (the use of stimulant and osmotic laxatives) and non-pharmacological (education, changes in diet, intervention to promote positive behavior and address any emotional issues, toilet training, and physiotherapy for the pelvic floor) interventions. In the case of refractory patients, neuromodulation, the irrigation of the anal canal, and surgical management may be needed. It is essential to lead a healthy, stress-free lifestyle with plenty of exercise and a balanced diet rich in fiber (such as fruits and vegetables) so children can have regular bowel habits and thrive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kona Chowdhury
- Department of Pediatrics, Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Susmita Sinha
- Department of Physiology, Khulna City Medical College and Hospital, Khulna, BGD
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Department of Periodontology and Implantology, Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar, IND
| | - Mainul Haque
- Karnavati Scientific Research Center (KSRC), Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar, IND
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, MYS
| | - Rahnuma Ahmad
- Department of Physiology, Medical College for Women and Hospital, Dhaka, BGD
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Steurbaut L, Levy EI, De Geyter C, Buyse S, Vandenplas Y. A narrative review on the diagnosis and management of constipation in infants. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:769-783. [PMID: 37501219 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2242255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Functional constipation is one of the common disorders of gut-brain interaction in infancy, and decreases the quality of life of infants and parents. AREAS COVERED Relevant articles up to November 2022 were reviewed. We searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE for guidelines, position papers, reviews, and randomized controlled trials on infant constipation. EXPERT OPINION Randomized controlled trials in this specific age group are mostly limited to trials with infant formula. The prevalence of infant constipation in formula-fed infants is decreasing, and can be associated with adaptations in formula composition. While the supplementation of infant formula with pro-, pre- and/or synbiotics decreases the prevalence of constipation, their efficacy in constipated infants is disappointing. There is limited evidence to support the addition of magnesium to infant formula to treat constipation. The evidence for the efficacy and safety of polyethylene glycol in children < 2 years has expanded over the past years. The administration of lactulose or polyethylene glycol is the preferred medical management, in case nutritional management does result in insufficient improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurine Steurbaut
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elvira Ingrid Levy
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, C.H.U. Saint-Pieter, Free University of Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Charlotte De Geyter
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Yvan Vandenplas
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Salvatore S, Battigaglia MS, Murone E, Dozio E, Pensabene L, Agosti M. Dietary Fibers in Healthy Children and in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Practical Guide. Nutrients 2023; 15:2208. [PMID: 37432354 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary fibers include non-digestible plant carbohydrates, lignin and resistant starch. Dietary fibers provide immune, cardiovascular, metabolic and intestinal beneficial effects in humans. Fibers naturally present in foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals) or used as supplements have different physical, chemical and functional profiles. This narrative review provides an update to the knowledge on the effects of dietary fibers in healthy subjects and in children with gastrointestinal disorders. Soluble fibers are digested by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids and energy for colonocytes, and may exert prebiotic effects that promote the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Non-soluble fibers are bulking agents and may improve intestinal transit. The exact amount and characteristics of the fiber requirement in infants and children need to be further established. There are limited data evaluating fibers in children with gastrointestinal disorders. The low intake of fibers has been associated with constipation, but the intake of excessive fibers is not recommended as it may cause flatulence and abdominal discomfort. Certain fibers (particularly psyllium in irritable bowel syndrome) have shown beneficial effects in children with gastrointestinal disorders, but the limited and heterogenous data do not currently allow a specific recommendation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Salvatore
- Pediatric Department, Hospital "F. Del Ponte", Via F. Del Ponte 19, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Maria Serena Battigaglia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Elena Murone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Eugenia Dozio
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Licia Pensabene
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Massimo Agosti
- Pediatric Department, Hospital "F. Del Ponte", Via F. Del Ponte 19, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|