Category: Gut motility

Every 90 to 120 minutes during a period of fasting, a wave of rhythmic muscle contractions known as the migrating motor complex (MMC) sweeps through your gastrointestinal tract. This biological 'housekeeper' function is vital for clearing residual food, bacteria, and debris, ensuring a healthy digestive environment and proper gut motility.

According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, fiber's effects on gut motility are complex, with different types of fiber affecting transit time in different ways. Dietary fiber, a crucial component of a healthy diet, is known for its widespread benefits, particularly for digestive health. Understanding how fiber affects gut motility is key to optimizing your digestive wellness and managing common conditions like constipation.

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, over 90% of women and 97% of men do not meet their recommended daily fiber intake, often leading to digestive issues. While commonly associated with regulating digestion, the answer to the question, 'does fiber help slow motility?' is more complex and depends entirely on the type of fiber being consumed.

A 2024 study in *Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology* found that ultra-processed food intake was associated with higher odds of constipation, a key symptom of slow motility. Understanding **what foods decrease gut motility** is crucial for maintaining regular digestive function and overall well-being, as diet is a major contributing factor.