Why constipation is common in astronauts

A new study sheds light on why constipation is a common issue among astronauts during extended missions in space. Researchers analyzed blood samples from 52 astronauts who spent months on the International Space Station (ISS) and found changes in gut bacteria that lead to increased protein fermentation. Dr. Giorgia La Barbera, co-author of the study, explains that this protein fermentation persists until the astronauts return to Earth.

This fermentation occurs because the body adapts to the lack of gravity, causing food to move more slowly through the intestine. Co-author Dr. Henrik Roager suggests that the slower movement of food may contribute to constipation in astronauts. The study's findings, published in Nature Communications, have implications not only for space travelers but also for bedridden patients on Earth who experience constipation and increased protein fermentation.

Researcher Dr. Lars Ove Dragsted emphasizes the importance of understanding these gut changes, as they could potentially lead to interventions such as dietary fiber increase or prebiotic supplementation to promote a healthy gut environment and prevent negative health consequences.