Are you locked in a battle with chronic constipation? Before you surrender to the discomfort, consider trying kiwis and rye bread. Sounds strange? We thought so too, but according to recent dietary guidelines from the British Dietetic Association, these foods along with high mineral-content water and specific supplements might be the key to easing your toilet troubles.

The researchers behind these guidelines describe them as a breath of fresh air in a field where existing dietary recommendations are as stale as a day-old baguette. Previous guidelines left much to be desired, largely due to incomprehensive and outdated information.

The guidelines highlighted a list of 59 evidence-based constipation combatants, including consuming two to three kiwi fruits daily, munching six to eight slices of rye bread a day, and downing up to a litre and a half of high mineral-content water. They also recommended taking magnesium oxide supplements to reduce bloating and the use of fiber supplements to bulk up your stool (yup, we just talked about your stool. Get used to it – we’re all about keeping it real).

Chronic constipation can cramp your style - literally - with decreased daily bowel movements (less than three per week is typically the threshold for concern), straining during bowel movements, passing small, hard stool, or feeling that your bowels haven’t emptied completely. It’s a common issue, affecting up to 20% of Americans. But before you sulk about your clogged colon, remember: with dietary changes, there's hope for more relief than just relying on medications.

But a word of caution: before you go guzzling mineral water and popping magnesium supplements like they're candy, make sure to quench your thirst for thoroughness. Check in with your healthcare team to ensure that your new regimen won't cause any unwanted interactions, particularly if you are on prescribed medications. And remember to drink plenty of water when consuming high-fiber foods or supplements to avoid side effects like abdominal cramping, bloating, and excess gas. In short: stay hydrated, my friends.

Ready to arm yourself against chronic constipation? Team up with a gastroenterologist and a registered dietitian to lay out your battle plan. A diet rich in kiwis, rye bread, and high mineral-content water, coupled with some carefully-chosen supplements, could be the key to victory over your bowel blues. Be warned: this might be the most epic bathroom breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.