Effect of fruit intake on functional constipation: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and crossover studies

Huo J, Wu L, Lv J, Cao H, Gao Q · Frontiers in Nutrition · 2022 October 06

DOI 10.3389/fnut.2022.1018502

Objective

Functional constipation (FC) is commonly treated with fruits whose efficacy remains unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis of fruit intervention for FC and provided evidence-based recommendations.

Conclusions

Fruit intake may have potential symptom alleviation on the FC as evidence shows that they can affect stool consistency, stool frequency, and gut microbiota. Further large-scale studies are needed to gain more confident conclusions concerning the association between fruit intake and FC in the future.

Critical Appraisal

Published research can offer valuable insights, but a paper’s conclusions may go beyond what its results support. Critical appraisal examines the methods, findings and limitations to clarify what can reasonably be concluded—and what remains uncertain.

This article has not yet been critically appraised by the Research Hub.

Learn more about Critical Appraisal

Insights

Meta-analysis indicates that fruit consumption, particularly kiwifruits, effectively alleviates constipation symptoms, offering valuable insights into improving gut health.

A meta-analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examined the effects of fruit consumption on patients with functional constipation. The analysis revealed that fruit consumption, particularly kiwifruits, significantly increased stool frequency, improved stool consistency, and positively impacted microbiota composition, suggesting a potential dietary approach for managing constipation symptoms.