Why Astronauts Get Constipated in Space? Science Finds the Answer
Researchers uncover the mechanism slowing bowel movements in microgravity.
1Space's Impact on Digestion
Astronauts frequently experience constipation during space missions. A new study published in Nature by University of Copenhagen and NASA reveals how microgravity slows bowel movements. Samples from 52 astronauts showed significant changes in gut microbiota during spaceflight. These alterations cause food to move much slower through the digestive system compared to Earth's conditions.
2Protein Fermentation Mechanism
In zero-gravity, slow food movement forces gut bacteria to ferment proteins instead of carbohydrates for energy. Compounds released during this process were detected in astronauts' blood samples. Lead author Giorgia La Barbera notes this change begins when astronauts reach space and continues until they return. Protein fermentation was identified as the primary cause of slowed bowel movements.
3Risk for Mars Missions
Constipation poses serious health risks during long-duration spaceflights. Researchers warn that months-long missions to Mars could increase risks of heart disease, chronic kidney failure, and even colorectal cancer. NASA's nutritional biochemistry manager Scott M. Smith states they're investigating dietary solutions to mitigate these effects for future deep space missions.
4Dietary Solutions
Scientists recommend space diets rich in 'slow-fermented carbohydrates.' Fiber-rich foods like lentils, nuts and vegetables accelerate bowel movements by promoting fiber fermentation over protein. University of Copenhagen's Henrik Roager suggests prebiotic supplements could also help reduce gut transit time during space missions.
5Earth Applications
The findings have implications beyond space travel. Co-author Lars Ove Dragsted notes similar mechanisms occur in bedridden patients suffering from chronic constipation. Insights from space research could inform medical treatments for Earth-bound patients experiencing comparable digestive issues.
6Psychological Effects
Some molecules released during protein fermentation were linked to increased anxiety and stress in animal studies. Researchers caution that constipation might affect astronauts' mental health during isolated, stressful missions like Mars expeditions. This presents an additional risk factor for long-duration spaceflight crew health.
7NASA's Nutrition Policies
NASA continuously reviews astronauts' dietary programs. Nutrition experts are working on dietary modifications to counteract spaceflight's negative effects. The new study's findings will help shape nutritional strategies, particularly for extended missions where maintaining crew health is critical.
8Gravity's Vital Role
This research underscores gravity's crucial role in human physiology. Our digestive systems, like many bodily functions, evolved under Earth's gravitational conditions. Space research provides a unique laboratory for understanding how the human body adapts - or fails to adapt - to weightlessness.
Original article: CNET — Uzayda Neden Kabız Olunur? Bilim İnsanları Yanıt Buldu