Constipation Accelerates the Speed of Cognitive Impairment. Naresh Chand, Ph.D., Courtesy of ADRxSynergy

Constipation Accelerates the Speed of Cognitive Impairment. Naresh Chand, Ph.D., Courtesy of ADRxSynergy

Ayurvedic medicine emphasizes that most diseases originate in the gut, and bowel regularity—typically defined as once or twice daily—is a sign of an optimal healthy digestive system. This stands in contrast to Western practices, where this notion is often overlooked. Dr. Chand, who occasionally experiences mild to moderate constipation, references that constipation is a common issue in modern society. Studies suggest that between 10-30% of people in the U.S. may experience mild to moderate constipation, and over 1-9% may suffer from severe constipation. The stressful lifestyle, brain-acting medications, dehydration, and lack of plant-based foods are the major factors in faster cognitive decline in 47 million Americans living with MCI. More clinical research is warranted.

The impact of constipation on cognitive decline is a growing concern, particularly in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease. Research suggests that constipation is not only a gastrointestinal issue but also has significant implications for mental health. Specifically, the study you reference found that individuals with constipation experience cognitive decline at a rate approximately 2.7 times faster than those without constipation, indicating that constipation may accelerate the deterioration of mental abilities in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s (2). This highlights the interconnectedness between gastrointestinal health and cognitive function, suggesting that improving gut health with mild laxative plant-based foods, herbs, and spices (Ayurvedic cooking) and optimal body hydration and yogic moves (1) may be crucial in managing and slowing down the progression of cognitive decline.

Dr. Naresh Chand, whose work draws on modern scientific research and ancient Ayurvedic principles, emphasizes the importance of maintaining gut health for overall well-being, especially as we age. In Ayurvedic medicine, bowel regularity—a bowel movement once or twice daily—is a crucial indicator of good health. However, this notion is often overlooked in Western medicine, where constipation is frequently treated as a minor concern despite its potential long-term health effects.

Dr. Chand notes that constipation is a widespread issue in modern society, affecting 10-30% of the U.S. population, with 1-9% experiencing severe constipation. Several factors contribute to this issue, including dehydration, a low-fiber diet, excessive consumption of processed foods, and a high intake of animal-based proteins and fats. These factors can lead to dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiota, which has been linked to a range of health problems, including obesity, neuropsychiatric conditions, and cognitive decline.

Dysbiosis, which tends to worsen with age, is particularly concerning as it may contribute to an increased risk of both physical and mental health problems. The relationship between the gut microbiota and aging is complex, influencing digestion, immune function, and mental health. As we age, maintaining a healthy gut microbiota becomes critical for preventing or slowing the onset of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and obesity.

Dr. Chand advocates for a holistic approach to gut health, drawing on conventional, complementary, and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches. These approaches focus on lifestyle, diet, and natural remedies to restore balance to the gut microbiota, ease digestive issues, and potentially mitigate the risks associated with cognitive decline and other age-related health concerns.

For further reading, Dr. Chand has shared his insights on CAM approaches to easing constipation, stressing the importance of addressing constipation as part of a broader strategy for cognitive and overall health. He aptly says, "I am stuffed and dehydrated; I am not crazy."(1).

1. "I am stuffed and dehydrated; I am not crazy." Dr. Chand's CAM approaches to Ease Pooping https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/i-am-stuffed-dehydrated-crazy-dr-chands-cam-approaches-chand-loife/

2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9627372/