Constipation Prevalence and Lifestyle Factors Affecting Constipation of High School Students in Gimhae Area

ABSTRACT

To better understand the prevalence of constipation and related lifestyle factors, the excretion habits, lifestyle, frequency of food intake, food preference, and stress of 1,157 high school students (713 males and 444 females) in the city of Gimhae, Korea were surveyed. The study was part of research aimed at providing basic nutritional data to alleviate or prevent constipation. Most respondents were male (61.6%). Of all the respondents, 55.4% reported that they have been constipated, with females reporting more episodes. Stress, lack of exercise, and bad eating habits were linked to constipation. Students reporting constipation slept less, were more sedate, ate less, and drank less water than non-constipated respondents. Their diet frequently consisted of noodles, sugary food and coffee. The results suggest that students could benefit from nutritional education in lessening the prevalence of constipation.