The status of probiotics to treat functional constipation
Functional constipation is an umbrella term covering persistent, difficult, infrequent, or seemingly incomplete defecation without a known cause.
Researchers from The Medical University of Warsaw, in Dzialdowska, Poland reviewed the evidence in adults in children.
First, the details.
- 5 studies in 377 people were reviewed — 3 in adults, 2 in children.
And, the results.
- In adults,
- Data suggest a favorable effect of treatment with Bifidobacterium lactis DN-173 010, Lactobacillus casei Shirota, and Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 on defecation frequency and stool consistency.
- In children,
- L. casei rhamnosus Lcr35, but not L. rhamnosus GG, showed a beneficial effect.
The bottom line?
Despite the encouraging findings, the authors concluded, “The use of probiotics for the treatment of constipation condition should be considered investigational.”
3/16/10 20:47 JR