Scientists finally explain why chronic constipation treatments often fail

Scientists at Nagoya University in Japan have identified two gut bacteria that appear to work together to trigger chronic constipation. The microbes, Akkermansia muciniphila and Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, break down the protective mucus layer that lines the colon. This slippery coating is essential for keeping the colon lubricated and stool soft. When too much of it is destroyed, stool becomes dry and difficult to pass.

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