Recent
New UK guidelines published in October 2025 identify kiwifruit, rye bread, and mineral water as effective dietary solutions for chronic constipation, overturning the widespread recommendation of generic high-fiber diets and senna supplements.
October 22, 2025
Source:
King's College London
New Evidence Changes Constipation Advice
Researchers at King’s College London, working with the British Dietetic Association (BDA), have developed the first evidence-based dietary guidelines for managing chronic constipation. Published in October 2025, these new recommendations challenge previous advice and offer more targeted dietary strategies. King’s College London news confirms the guidelines were built on a systematic review of over 75 clinical trials, using the GRADE evidence assessment framework (BDA).
What Works
Kiwifruit (2-3 a day) for improved symptoms
Rye bread as a regular part of diet
High mineral-content water
Psyllium (soluble fiber supplement)
Certain probiotic strains
Magnesium oxide supplements
These foods and supplements were highlighted as effective in relieving chronic constipation, with evidence rated from moderate to high quality.
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Source:
Sci.News
Old Recommendations Re-examined
Generic high-fiber diets and senna supplements, long recommended for constipation, were not supported by strong evidence, according to the new guidelines. While dietary fiber remains important for overall health, its specific effectiveness for chronic constipation is now questioned (Neurogastroenterology & Motility). “Previous guidelines incorporated limited dietary advice. Diet is a preferred approach,” said Dr. Eirini Dimidi, lead author.
Practical Impact
The guidelines focus on personalized care.
Tools are provided for clinicians to match diet choices to symptoms such as stool frequency and quality of life.
There is a call for improved research, as much of the evidence base remains limited or inconsistent.
Find more details at the Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics.
Read More
Source:
ScienceDaily
Broader Implications and Gaps
These guidelines aim to shift constipation management away from medication, placing emphasis on easily accessible, evidence-based dietary changes. The BDA has endorsed this move toward practical self-management (BDA guidelines).
Table of Top Recommendations
Kiwifruit: Moderate evidence
Rye bread: Moderate evidence
Mineral-rich water: Moderate evidence
Psyllium: High evidence
Probiotics (select strains): Moderate evidence
Clinicians and patients are encouraged to adopt these approaches as first-line interventions.
Access all recommendations and visual materials at King’s College London's official release and the BDA website.
What are the key findings of the new dietary guidelines for chronic constipation?
The guidelines recommend kiwifruit, rye bread, high mineral-content water, psyllium supplements, select probiotics, and magnesium oxide for chronic constipation, while generic high-fiber diets and senna are not supported by strong evidence.
How do kiwifruits compare to other fruits in managing constipation?
What specific probiotic strains are recommended for chronic constipation?
How does high mineral-content water help with constipation?
What are the limitations of current dietary guidelines for constipation?
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