Don’t Ignore This Killer Constipation Threat

No one wants to talk about constipation… but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it.

Besides causing pain, gas, and cramps, constipation can lead to more serious health risks, such as bowel incontinence, fecal impaction, anal fissures, and rectal prolapse.

But even beyond these issues, constipation can increase your risk of suffering the number one cause of death in the U.S.

Fortunately, you can do something about it.

A recent study analyzed data from the UK Biobank that included over 23,000 constipation cases.

Researchers found that people who suffered from constipation were TWICE as likely to have a heart attack, stroke, and heart failure compared to those who weren’t constipated.

Taking a closer look, they found a strong link between constipation and high blood pressure. Compared to people with hypertension alone, folks with high blood pressure AND constipation had a 34 percent higher risk of suffering from a major cardiovascular event.

We’ve seen this connection before.

One study found that people who went days between bowel movements had a higher risk of dying from heart disease compared to those who had one daily.

Other studies have found that people with constipation have a greater risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.

What’s the reason for this link?

For starters, straining to pass stool can increase your blood pressure, which can be dangerous, especially for anyone already suffering from hypertension.

It’s estimated that systolic blood pressure can increase by 70 mmHg when someone is straining to pass stool.

This is only a temporary increase, but it could be all it takes to push you over the top.

The dangers are only amplified if you also have atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in your arteries).

Ironically, many of the most common drugs for high blood pressure can CAUSE constipation as a side effect.

Another trigger is poor gut health, which can increase the risk of constipation. And dysbiosis (gut imbalance) has also been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Whatever the reason for the link, correcting your issues with constipation will make you more comfortable and lower your heart risks.

The best ways to “get going” are simple: eating whole foods, drinking more water, and exercising.

P.S. Still backed up? Try these five tricks to CONQUER constipation.

SOURCE:

Zheng, T., Camargo Tavares, L., & Marques, F. Z. (2024). Constipation is associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiac events in a UK population. American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology.