Constipation and diarrhea's relationship with alcohol consumption in adult Americans: evidence from NHANES 2005-2010

Abstract

Objective The consumption of alcohol as a part of daily life influences our intestinal health, with both positive and negative effects. There is limited research on the constipation and diarrhea's relationship with alcohol. This study delves into the detailed relationship between fecal shape and alcohol consumption in American adults. Stool shape was categorized as constipation, normal, and diarrhea. Methods For this cross-sectional study, we selected a sample of 8829 adults aged 20 years and older from the 2005–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Definitions for constipation, diarrhea, and bowel health were established using the Bristol Scale. Chronic constipation encompassed types 1 and 2; types 6 and 7 were categorized as diarrhea; and types 3, 4, and 5 were deemed indicative of bowel health. To investigate the association between stool shape and alcohol consumption, we employed univariate logistic regression models, multivariate logistic regression models, and multilevel linear regression models. Results The population with constipation exhibited a significantly lower drinking frequency compared to those with diarrhea and the normal subjects. Furthermore, drinking frequency was negatively correlated with the risk of constipation in women. Drinking frequency served as a protective factor for women experiencing constipation, but this association was not observed in men with constipation. Among individuals who consumed more than 12 drinks per year, the normal group was notably overrepresented in the constipated group. Individuals who consumed more than 5 drinks per day for a period were more prone to experiencing diarrhea, and this trend was more pronounced in women than in men. Additionally, the average number of drinks consumed in the past 12 months was significantly associated with diarrhea in women. Conclusion In summary, this study demonstrates a significant association between stool shape and alcohol consumption. Healthcare professionals can contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of patients by considering their lifestyle, and patients can proactively adjust their lifestyle to alleviate constipation or diarrhea.