The Association Between Malnutrition and Constipation in Elderly Individuals: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Authors : Nilüfer Acar Tek, Hatice Baygut, Mehmet Mustafa Tilekli

Pages : 10-20

Doi:10.71445/umbd.1793078

View : 110 | Download : 375

Publication Date : 2025-11-29

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aimed to examine the association between malnutrition and constipation in elderly individuals and to explore how nutritional status influences constipation risk, severity, and quality of life. Materials and Methods: A total of 358 community-dwelling individuals aged ≥65 years participated voluntarily. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment–Short Form (MNA-SF), and constipation was evaluated using the Constipation Risk Assessment Scale (CRAS), Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life Questionnaire (PAC-QOL), and the Constipation Severity Instrument (CSI). Anthropometric measurements and 1-day dietary intake records were collected through face-to-face interviews. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: Energy, macronutrient (protein, carbohydrate, fat), and dietary fiber intake significantly differed by nutritional status (p<0.05). Participants with malnutrition had higher constipation risk scores, more severe symptoms, and worse constipation-related quality of life (all p<0.001). A strong positive correlation was observed between MNA-SF scores and fiber intake (r=0.751, p<0.001).Conclusions: Malnutrition and constipation are closely interrelated in the elderly. Poor nutritional status, especially inadequate fiber and energy intake, is associated with increased constipation burden and lower quality of life. Early identification of malnutrition and implementation of tailored dietary interventions may improve gastrointestinal health and support healthy aging.
Keywords : Beslenme durumu, Konstipasyon, malnütrisyon, Yaşlı bireyler

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