Study Links Constipation to Increased Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

The increased risk of MACE remained even after accounting for the use of medications causing constipation, including calcium channel blockers used to help control blood pressure.
Direct factors, such as high cholesterol and smoking, contribute directly to the formation of plaque in the arteries—a precursor to heart disease. Indirect factors, like constipation, do not directly cause plaque but may lead to conditions that promote cardiovascular risks.
Lee explained that chronic constipation can induce temporary spikes in blood pressure due to straining, which may have lasting impacts on heart health.
Chronic constipation can impair the function of the vagus nerve, a crucial component of the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for regulating heart rate and managing inflammation. Disturbances in vagus nerve activity can lead to abnormal heart rhythms and elevated stress responses, ultimately contributing to hypertension.
Additionally, imbalances in gut bacteria associated with constipation can lead to inflammatory responses that may eventually result in arterial stiffening and plaque development.
Lee emphasizes the importance of a proactive approach to health management, stating, “It’s always better to manage your health proactively as opposed to reactively.”
Regular consultations with health care providers can help individuals develop tailored risk-reduction strategies to promote cardiovascular and digestive health.