You Need to Know the Connection Between Constipation and Heart Disease!

Constipation occurs when there are infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools. It is often associated with serious health concerns like heart disease. Constipation can happen due to diet routine changes or inadequate fiber intake.

But did you know that avoiding this condition or taking it easy can result in dangerous outcomes?

Yes. 

A 2018 Gut Health Survey found that 22% of Indian adults suffer from constipation, with 59% experiencing severe constipation. The survey also revealed that constipation is more prevalent in cities, with 28% in Kolkata and 26% in Chennai.

Recent studies have highlighted a link between constipation and a higher risk of heart attacks. This connection is more complex than simply staining on the toilet, and understanding the underlying factors can help people take proactive steps to protect their heart health. 

Common Risk factors of Constipation and cardiovascular disease

Here are some factors that are common for both constipation and heart diseases-

• Use of non-aspirin non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Diabetes mellitus
• Depression
• Lack of physical exercise, 
• Low dietary fiber intake
• Disturbances in gut microbiomes are common in constipation patients. It may cause
• Arterial Stiffness
• Increased blood pressure
• Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular disease
• Heart failure

The Link Between Constipation and Heart Disease

A recent international study conducted by Monash University researchers has revealed that there is a link between constipation and a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. Analyzing data from over 23,000 people in the UK Biobank, researchers found that people with constipation were twice as likely to experience a major cardiovascular event.

People with both constipation and hypertension were found to have a 34% increased risk of a major heart event compared to those with only hypertension. The study mainly focuses on people of European ancestry; similar findings have been observed in other populations, such as a Japanese study linking infrequent bowel movements to a higher risk of heart disease-related death. 

Low frequency refers to having a bowel movement once every 2-3 days, while high frequency means having bowel movements more than once per day.

Also read: What are Gut Microbiome & Gut Microbiota?

What is the link? 

Research from 2019 explains the factors that may underlie the connection between constipation and cardiovascular events, such as heart rhythm disorders and congestive heart failure, a condition characterized by inadequate pumping of the heart.

The relationship between constipation and heart disease is complex and involves various factors:

• Gut Microbiome: The gut microbiome, which consists of bacteria in the digestive tract, plays a vital role in overall health.
• Imbalances in the gut microbiome, often linked to constipation, have been implicated in heart disease risk and certain health conditions, including- 
• Worsening of atherosclerosis- Fatty deposits on the inner walls of arteries increase the chances of heart-related issues,
• Aging- Aging is another factor to consider. Older people are at higher risk of both constipation and cardiovascular disease. Our digestive system may slow down as we age, leading to constipation. Similarly, the risk of heart disease increases with age, making it important for older adults to be aware of this potential link.
• Increased stress- Chronic constipation is linked with increased anxiety and also affects blood pressure and heart rate.

Other Factors to Consider

What you eat is what you become. However, multiple lifestyle factors play an important role in this. These include-

• Diet: Processed foods, unhealthy fats, and low fiber can lead to constipation and increase the risk of heart disease.
• Sedentary lifestyle- Stress, sleeping habits, and smoking can also impact both constipation and heart health.
•  Medications: Certain medications, such as opioids and diuretics, can cause constipation and may increase the risk of heart disease.

Also read: Best Foods to Improve Your Gut Health

Taking Steps to Protect Your Heart

Well, there are many tips you can follow to reduce your risk of constipation and heart disease.

• Diet Changes—If you frequently feel constipated, it's high time to change your diet. Eat fiber-rich foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This diet helps regulate bowel movements and improve heart health.
• Hydration—One of the best and most effective tips for eliminating constipation is staying hydrated. Drink more water throughout the day to prevent constipation and maintain overall health.
• Regular Exercise—Keep yourself active by doing regular exercise. Walking improves digestion and reduces the risk of heart disease.
• Stress Management—Do you stress a lot? Stress is another factor that causes constipation. Find effective ways of dealing with stress, like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. 
• Medical Consultation—If you're experiencing chronic constipation or have concerns related to your heart health, consult with a Doctor for personalized advice.
• Regular health checkups— Routine health checkups are crucial to maintaining overall health. Stay informed about your health status, and take proactive steps to prevent and manage constipation and heart disease. You can take the Gut Microbiome Test from Redcliffe Labs to understand the risk of future diseases.

Also read: Gut check: Simple Ways to Improve Your Digestive Health

The Bottom Line

Constipation is no longer just a minor inconvenience. It is a severe health issue that needs your attention to reduce your risk of heart disease. If you are experiencing frequent constipation issues, do not ignore them; take proactive steps to protect your cardiovascular well-being by understanding the link between constipation and heart health. Make dietary changes, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and seeking medical advice can significantly reduce the risk of both constipation and heart disease.