New metabolomics research published by the University of Copenhagen has finally revealed why astronauts frequently suffer from gastrointestinal issues like constipation in space. By analyzing blood biomarkers, scientists discovered that microgravity significantly slows down the human digestive tract, forcing gut bacteria to shift from digesting fiber to breaking down proteins. This metabolic shift produces harmful protein fermentation byproducts, presenting a critical health challenge that space agencies must resolve before launching long-duration manned missions to Mars.
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