Identifying patients potentially at risk of organ dysfunction
Abnormal bowel movement frequencies may be linked to higher uremic toxins and reduced kidney and liver function in healthy patients, according to a study published in Cell Reports Medicine.
In the study, researchers collected the stool and blood samples of 1,425 patients — a majority of whom were white females — who completed extensive diet, health and lifestyle questionnaires. They defined normal bowel movement frequency as one to three movements per day, constipation as two or less movements per week and diarrhea as four or more movements per day.
Among the patients included in the study, constipation was correlated with reduced kidney function, altered gut microbiome composition such as depletion of beneficial gut bacteria and higher levels of uremic toxins that have previously been implicated in the progression of chronic kidney disease.
The researchers concluded that patients can manage their bowel movement frequencies through diet and lifestyle modifications in order to reduce the risk of organ dysfunction. Further research is needed to establish causality and develop targeted interventions.
Read more: Cell Reports Medicine
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