Scientists Identify Potential Cause of Astronaut Constipation in Space

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and NASA analyzed blood samples from 52 astronauts and found that gut bacteria ferment more protein during spaceflight, potentially causing constipation.

The study suggests that microgravity slows intestinal movement, leading to increased protein fermentation, which produces metabolites that may also affect the gut-brain axis and astronaut mood.

These findings, published after analyzing missions over several years, could lead to new dietary interventions like increased fiber or prebiotics for long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars.