Could Chronic Constipation Hint at Dementia Risk?

Key Takeaways:

• An initial study suggests a potential correlation between chronic constipation and cognitive decline, with individuals suffering from chronic constipation exhibiting poorer performance on memory and thinking tests.
• The gut microbiome, a vast collection of bacteria residing in our intestines, has been proposed as a theoretical explanation for this connection, with the question being posed as to whether certain gut microbiome states might contribute to degenerative brain conditions like Alzheimer’s.
• The findings stress the importance of discussing gut health with seniors, especially constipation, and suggest that a diet rich in fiber and regular exercise can help prevent constipation and promote gut health.
• Research has linked healthy lifestyle habits such as a plant-rich diet and regular exercise to a decreased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
• Additional studies and ongoing clinical trials suggest a link between healthy gut bacteria and cognitive health, though further research is needed to draw definitive connections.

An initial study suggests a potential correlation between chronic constipation and cognitive decline.

Researchers discovered that out of over 110,000 middle-aged and senior adults in the U.S., those who experienced chronic constipation, defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week, also exhibited signs of cognitive degeneration, as if their brains had aged an additional three years compared to their regular counterparts.

Constipation and Cognitive Decline

The individuals with chronic constipation tended to have poorer performance on memory and thinking tests. They were also 73% more likely to report deteriorating cognitive abilities.

These findings, while still preliminary, were shared at an Alzheimer’s Association conference held in Amsterdam. They should not be interpreted as evidence that constipation directly accelerates brain aging.

However, the results contribute to growing evidence that links gut health to brain health.

The Link between the Gut and the Brain

One theoretical explanation proposed by researchers is the gut microbiome, the vast collection of bacteria that naturally reside in our intestines and contribute to various bodily functions.

In recent years, many studies have been exploring the possible connections between the gut microbiome and different diseases, including degenerative brain conditions such as Alzheimer’s.

The central question being posed is whether certain gut microbiome states, characterized by an overabundance of harmful bacteria or insufficient quantities of beneficial ones, might contribute to these diseases.

One recent study discovered that individuals showing early signs of Alzheimer’s, such as abnormal protein accumulation in the brain, also had gut microbiomes differing from those of other older adults.

Ambiguities and Suggestions

The correlation between constipation and cognitive decline could indicate that constipation is a symptom of a gut microbiome state associated with poorer cognition, but this hypothesis remains to be confirmed.

“Whether it’s the constipation itself or its underlying cause, such as disruptions in the gut microbiome or changes in diet that are driving this association, is not clear at this time,” stated Claire Sexton, senior director of scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer’s Association.

The findings highlight the importance of discussing gut health with seniors, particularly the issue of constipation.

Fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans, as well as regular exercise, can help prevent constipation and promote gut health.

Looking to the Future

Other research has also linked these healthy lifestyle habits to a decrease in the risk of age-related cognitive decline and dementia.

The initial findings of this study were based on data from three large-scale studies involving over 100,000 U.S. medical professionals tracked for several years.

Two additional studies presented at the conference also propose a link between healthy gut bacteria and cognitive health. While these findings are promising, further research is required to establish more definitive connections.

There is currently also a clinical trial being conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association to test how a healthy diet (high in plant foods and fiber), exercise, and other lifestyle changes might slow cognitive decline in older adults.

The Alzheimer’s Association provides advice on supporting brain health.

Note: Research discussed at medical conferences is generally viewed as preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.