Blood tests reveal why astronauts get constipated in space

What happened

Scientists analyzed blood samples from 52 astronauts who spent months aboard the International Space Station and found signs that the digestive system begins changing relatively soon after astronauts leave Earth. Science News from research organizations Blood tests reveal why astronauts get constipated in space Astronauts’ gut bacteria shift within weeks of entering space, potentially revealing why constipation is so common in microgravity.

Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY Constipation is a familiar problem for astronauts, but scientists have not fully understood why spending time in space can disrupt normal digestion. New research from the University of Copenhagen, conducted in collaboration with NASA, offers a possible explanation. Gut Bacteria Shift Toward Protein Protein fermentation occurs when bacteria in the intestines begin breaking down protein rather than fiber because available dietary fiber has already been used.