Kiwis may be key to alleviating chronic constipation

(CNN) — Do you often experience difficulty defecating? If the answer is yes, newly released recommendations may help relieve your symptoms.

Kiwifruit, rye bread and high mineral-content water can help alleviate chronic constipation, according to new dietary guidelines copublished October 13 by the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics and Neurogastroenterology & Motility.

About 1 out of every 6 to 7 people are affected by chronic constipation worldwide. In the United States, 9% to 20% of adults have some form of chronic idiopathic constipation, in which the cause of the condition is unknown.

Some symptoms of chronic constipation include having a bowel movement fewer than three times a week, hard or lumpy stool, or straining or experiencing pain when pooping.

The guidelines