Researchers at King’s College London have created the first evidence-based dietary guidelines for chronic constipation, finding that real relief may come from kiwifruit, rye bread, and mineral water. Psyllium, probiotics, and magnesium oxide also showed benefits, while standard fibre and senna advice fell short. The guidelines emphasise self-management and high-quality evidence, offering practical tools for patients and clinicians alike.
Kiwifruit, rye bread, and mineral-rich water may help reduce the discomfort of chronic constipation, according to new evidence-based dietary guidelines developed by researchers at King’s College London.
The team’s work represents the first comprehensive, evidence-supported dietary recommendations specifically for adults living with long-term constipation. The research also found that supplements such as psyllium fibre, certain probiotics, and magnesium oxide may provide additional relief.
In contrast, some popular methods often promoted for constipation management, including general “high-fibre diets” and senna supplements (a type of laxative), were found to lack convincing scientific support for effectiveness.
Backed by Strong Evidence and Expert Endorsement
The new guidelines were published in two major international journals, the Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics and Neurogastroenterology & Motility and are endorsed by the British Dietetic Association (BDA).
The aim is to transform how constipation is treated in clinical settings by providing healthcare professionals with clear, evidence-based tools.
The guidelines also enable individuals to manage their condition more effectively through diet and hydration.
Constipation is a chronic condition that can seriously affect quality of life while adding to healthcare costs. Previous clinical recommendations have typically relied on increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake, an approach that researchers now say may be overly simplistic and outdated.
The Science Behind the New Guidelines
Unlike earlier guidance, the new recommendations draw on extensive systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Using the GRADE framework to evaluate evidence quality, an expert panel consisting of dietitians, a nutritionist, a gastroenterologist, a gut physiologist, and a general practitioner examined data from more than 75 clinical trials.
Their work resulted in 59 recommendations and the identification of 12 key areas for future research.
Dr Eirini Dimidi, Reader in Nutritional Sciences at King’s College London and lead author, explained: “Chronic constipation can have a huge impact on someone’s day-to-day life.
For the first time, we’ve provided direction on what dietary approaches could genuinely help, and which diet advice lacks evidence.
Being able to improve this condition through dietary changes would allow people to self-manage their symptoms more and, hopefully, improve their quality of life.”