Study Links Gut Microbe Overgrowth to Constipation

Recent research indicates that an overgrowth of gut microorganisms known as archaea may significantly contribute to severe constipation, particularly in older adults. This condition, termed intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO), affects approximately 16% of U.S. adults and is linked to higher instances of constipation compared to those with a balanced gut microbiome. Moreover, a separate study has established a concerning relationship between constipation and cardiovascular diseases, revealing that individuals with constipation are over twice as likely to experience heart-related issues, especially if they also have hypertension. The data, analyzed from over 400,000 participants, suggests that constipation could exacerbate cardiovascular risks, prompting calls for further investigation into the connection between gut health and heart disease. Researchers advocate for personalized treatment plans targeting the root causes of constipation due to IMO, aiming to develop specific therapies for affected individuals. The findings collectively underscore the importance of maintaining gut health for overall well-being.