Influence of fiber intake and pharmacotherapy on the prevalence of constipation in older adults at the Quillabamba Hospital

Aguilar-Herrera S.C.; Guija-Guerra H.; Díaz-Tena J.Á.; Valderrama Reyes V.; Maraví Castro M.B. · Nutricion Clinica y Dietetica Hospitalaria (2026) · DOI: 10.12873/461scaguilar

Resumen

Introduction: Constipation is a frequent and often underestimated complication during hospitalization, particularly in older adults, and may be influenced by diet and pharmacotherapy. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between fiber intake, medication use, and the presence of constipation in hospitalized patients. Materials and methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted in 70 older adults hospitalized in the internal medicine and surgery wards of the Hospital of Quillabamba in 2022. Fiber intake was estimated based on the portion served and consumed through direct observation. Constipation was assessed using the Rome IV criteria and the Bristol Stool Form Scale. Medications were classified as constipating, non-constipating, or without relevant medication through review of medical therapy in clinical records. Results: The analysis showed a mean fiber intake of 11.46 g/day, significantly lower than the recommended minimum of 25 g/day. ANOVA revealed significant differences in fiber intake according to diet consistency: soft > pureed > liquid (p < 0.05). Constipation was observed in 71% of patients receiving constipating medications and in 36% of those without relevant medication; additionally, 71% of patients receiving non-constipating medications also presented constipation, suggesting a combined effect of insufficient dietary fiber intake and pharmacotherapy. Conclusion: Insufficient fiber intake and pharmacotherapy with potential constipating effects are associated with the presence of constipation in hospitalized older adults, although they are not the only factors involved. These findings highlight the importance of considering multidimensional strategies, including dietary optimization and medication review, as part of a comprehensive approach to constipation management in this population.

Instituciones: Universidad Científica del Sur; Universidad Tecnológica del Perú