Abstract:

Intestinal constipation is characterized by a delay in bowel emptying that is difficult to define because to define it, it is necessary to take into account the frequency of bowel movements, the consistency of stools and the feeling of complete bowel emptying. The present study aimed to analyze the prevalence of intestinal constipation in students of the nutrition course at a private higher education institution in Blumenau, Santa Catarina. This is a cross-sectional, systematic quantitative research. Data collection was carried out from 11/03/20 to 11/10/20 through the application of a virtual questionnaire, prepared in accordance with the Rome III criteria and assessment of water consumption. The study sample comprised 50 academics, whose age ranged between 20 and 39 years. The results suggested that 54% of the participants had two or more symptoms suggestive of constipation. The most prevalent symptoms reported by the participants were: sensation of incomplete evacuation, 54% (n = 27) and hardened / fragmented stools 54% (n = 27). Regarding the total reported pure water intake, 14 participants stated that they consumed the amount recommended by the Food Guide for the Brazilian Population (two liters), which corresponds to 28% of the sample. Thus, it is concluded that this study represents a contribution to the recognition of the importance of constipation, since the presence of such symptoms influences the quality of life of individuals.

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