Association between A Body Shape Index with constipation and diarrhea: NHANES 2005 to 2010

A Body Shape Index (ABSI) is a composite metric designed to more accurately assess an individual's body size and associated health risks. This study aimed to explore the potential relationship between ABSI and constipation. A total of 11,336 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005 to 2010 were included. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between ABSI and constipation after adjustment for potential confounders. Restricted cubic spline analysis was performed to explore potential nonlinear associations. Subgroup and interaction analyses were conducted to assess whether the association differed across demographic and clinical characteristics. The multivariate logistic regression analysis, fully adjusted for confounders, indicated that an increase in ABSI was associated with a decrease in the incidence of constipation when ABSI was below 0.082 (OR = 5.88, 95% CI: 2.17-9.59, P < .01). Subgroup analysis and interaction tests revealed a significant positive association between ABSI and constipation, particularly in males, individuals with a college education or higher, alcohol users, as well as those with hypertension and diabetes. This study identified a relationship between ABSI and the incidence of constipation, suggesting that a reduction in ABSI, within specific limits, is linked to a decreased risk of constipation.