Scientists finally know why astronauts struggle to poop in space — and reveal a hidden risk of long-haul spaceflight
A new NASA-backed study has pinpointed why astronauts often experience constipation in space and how that might affect their health on long-haul missions to Mars and beyond.
Scientists have recently discovered why astronauts experience difficulties with bowel movements in space, and their findings may have implications for long-duration space missions to destinations like Mars. A new blood test conducted by researchers has revealed that microgravity causes a shift in gut bacteria, leading to a greater fermentation of proteins in the intestines.
This change occurs within weeks of an astronaut's arrival at the International Space Station (ISS) and persists until they return to Earth. While the slower movement of food through the intestines in space is a likely cause of constipation, the study also suggests that protein fermentation may have adverse health effects. The researchers found that certain products of protein fermentation are linked to negative consequences such as kidney damage, mood changes, and reduced focus.
Although these risks are likely minimal for short-duration missions, long-haul spaceflights could potentially lead to harmful levels of these metabolites. The study's authors recommend that future space missions consider countermeasures such as a fiber-rich diet, probiotic supplements, or promoting intestinal muscle contractions to mitigate these risks.
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