The role of thiamine in the prevention and long-term management of constipation

Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Constipation may be evoked when the usual rhythm of bowel movements is disturbed: less than three bowel movements per week. The worldwide prevalence of constipation is estimated at around 14%. It affects women more than men.

In this study, researchers investigated the relationship between dietary intake of vitamin B1 (thiamine) and the incidence of chronic constipation in adults.

The study included 10,371 adults aged 20 and over, who provided detailed information on their dietary habits.

Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that increasing dietary intake of vitamin B1 was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of constipation.

These results suggest that increased vitamin B1 intake may facilitate softer stools and increased colonic peristalsis, which could explain the reduction in constipation.

This study demonstrates an inverse correlation between dietary vitamin B1 intake and the prevalence of chronic constipation in adults, particularly in men, non-hypertensives, and non-diabetics. The results suggest that improving dietary intake of vitamin B1 could be a potential therapeutic approach for the management of constipation.

The researchers recommend that healthcare professionals encourage a balanced diet rich in vitamin B1 before considering medical interventions to treat constipation.

Thiamine therefore plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, and thiamine deficiency can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation. By supporting essential metabolic functions, vitamin B1 could improve intestinal motility and reduce constipation symptoms.

Source(s) :
Du W, Lu L, Liu Y, Yan Y, La R, Wu Q, Xu J, Zhou X. The association between dietary vitamin B1 intake and constipation: a population-based study. BMC Gastroenterol. 2024 May 17;24(1):171. doi: 10.1186/s12876-024-03255-2. PMID: 38760704; PMCID: PMC11100033 ;

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