Short answer: No. Even scientists have reported that sweet potatoes have positive impacts on treating and preventing constipation. In this post, we’ll discuss the effects of potatoes on constipation based on scientific research.
Potatoes are rich vegetables with many health benefits, such as a high level of starch, which can be used as a great energy source, and various vitamins. They also have a high ratio of dietary fibers (DF), which makes your digestive system perform efficiently, softens the stool, and makes it easier to pass. Therefore, potatoes do not cause constipation when eaten in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. But let’s review this claim based on scientific research.
First study: Sweet Potato and Constipation
In 2016, JY Zou and colleagues investigated the efficacy of a sweet potato diet in treating constipation in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy[1].
The final results showed that sweet potato consumption significantly reduced the rate of constipation and improved defecation frequency and duration in the intervention group compared to the control group. This improvement was observed on both the second and fifth days after beginning treatment.
While the study found no significant difference in defecation satisfaction across the groups, the sweet potato intervention improved overall bowel function and prevented constipation in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Overall, the study suggests that sweet potato consumption can effectively prevent constipation, relieve discomfort associated with defecation, and improve satisfaction with defecation in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Adverse Effects
JY Zou and colleagues have reported no adverse effects of sweet potato supplementation, such as acid regurgitation, heartburn, and stomachache. Furthermore, they reported that none of the patients withdrew from the intervention group because of intolerance to sweet potatoes. Hence, all patients in the intervention group showed good compliance with sweet potato supplementation.
Second study: Chinese Medicine Therapy of Constipation
Title: Introduction to the Chinese Medicine Characteristic Therapy of Constipation [2].
This study delves into the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approach to treating constipation, exploring its historical roots, diverse treatment methods, and unique perspective on the conditions. The study states that sweet potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber and are recommended for people with chronic constipation. It suggests that daily intake of sweet potatoes can help alleviate constipation.
Third study: Preventing constipation
Title: The Effect of a Sweet Potato, Footbath, and Acupressure Intervention in Preventing Constipation in Hospitalized Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes [3].
This study found that sweet potatoes were effective in preventing constipation in hospitalized patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). The study suggests that sweet potatoes increase the volume of intestinal waste, which stimulates the defecation reflex and leads to changed bowel habits. The study also mentions that sweet potatoes are readily digested and absorbed, reducing the burden on the gastrointestinal tract and heart.
In conclusion, the answer to whether potatoes cause constipation is a big NO. Studies show that eating potatoes is helpful in reviling and preventing constipation, because the dietary fiber of sweet potato enhances intestinal peristalsis and avoids constipation. However, the times and amounts of eating potatoes and how you cook and prepare them may impact the final result.
This article has been reviewed by a medical professional for accuracy. The content is based on scientific research and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice. If you experience persistent digestive issues, consult a healthcare provider.
Reference:
- Zou, J. Y., Xu, Y., Wang, X. H., Jiang, Q., & Zhu, X. M. (2016). Improvement of Constipation in Leukemia Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Using Sweet Potato. Cancer Nursing, 39(3), 181–186. https://doi.org/10.1097/ncc.0000000000000257
- Ma, Y., Jiang, H., & Duan, B. (2024). Introduction to the Chinese Medicine Characteristic Therapy of Constipation. Journal of Contemporary Medical Practice, 6(6), 97–101. https://doi.org/10.53469/jcmp.2024.06(06).17
- Ren, K., Qiu, J., Wang, X., Niu, F., & Jiang, T. (2012). The Effect of a Sweet Potato, Footbath, and Acupressure Intervention in Preventing Constipation in Hospitalized Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes. Gastroenterology Nursing, 35(4), 271–277. https://doi.org/10.1097/sga.0b013e31825ed7bc
