Association between food literacy and bowel movement frequency: An exploratory analysis

BackgroundNo studies have examined the relationship between food literacy and bowel movement frequency in adults.AimThis cross-sectional study aimed to explore the association between food literacy and bowel movement frequency.MethodsThis study analyzed data obtained using a self-report questionnaire administered to 119 adult factory workers in November 2025. The questionnaire included a validated self-perceived food-literacy scale, bowel movement frequency, and other explanatory variables. Bowel movement frequency was categorized ≤2 times/week and ≥3 times/week. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).SummaryAfter adjusting for age and sex, the ORs for per 1-point decrease in the daily food planning score were 1.94 (95% CI: 1.15-3.27) for bowel movement frequency ≤2 times/week, compared to ≥3 times/week. Compared with bowel movement frequency ≥3 times/week, the OR for healthy snack styles per 1-point decrease was 0.42 (95% CI: 0.22-0.82) for bowel movement frequency ≤2 times/week. Lower daily food planning scores and higher healthy snack style scores were associated with bowel movement frequency ≤2 times/week.