Epidemiological study: Correlation between diet habits and constipation among elderly in Beijing region

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Gastroenterology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Constipation is a prevalent issue among the elderly population.
• Dietary factors are suspected to influence constipation prevalence in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between diet and the prevalence of constipation among elderly individuals in Beijing.
• To identify specific dietary components associated with constipation in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A large-scale survey of 2776 individuals aged 60 and above in Beijing.
• Data collection via hierarchical, segmented, and random cluster sampling using door-to-door questionnaires.
• Assessment of constipation based on the China Chronic Constipation Diagnosis and Treatment Guideline (2013), including defecation frequency, stool consistency, and difficulty.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of constipation among elderly residents in Beijing was found to be 13%.
• A positive correlation was observed between constipation prevalence and increasing age.
• Negative correlations were identified between constipation and the intake of staple foods, fish, and dietary fibers (fruits and vegetables).

Conclusions:

• Elderly constipation prevalence in Beijing is strongly linked to dietary habits.
• Increased intake of staple foods, fish, and dietary fibers significantly reduces constipation prevalence.
• Dietary modification presents a potential strategy for managing constipation in the elderly.