A study involving 96,000 adults showed that Mediterranean and plant-based diets significantly help prevent chronic constipation in the elderly. This positive effect was not only due to the fibre content of the diet. On the contrary, Western and inflammatory diets increased the risk of constipation. Low-carbohydrate diets had only a minimal effect on the development of constipation. The research highlights that diet quality influences gut health more than previously thought. Prevention of constipation includes adequate fluid intake, regular exercise and avoiding foods that slow intestinal peristalsis. The recommended daily intake of fibre is approximately 25-35 grams, with fibre increasing the volume and softening the stool, making it easier to defecate. Regularity of defecation and not delaying the urge also contribute to the prevention of constipation.