Probiotics for Constipation in Adults and Children

Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria and yeast found naturally within the human body, have been used in food products around the world for millennia.

These healthy microbes are touted for keeping the digestive system running smoothly, alleviating constipation and for promoting healthy bowel function and regularity.

In fact, some manufacturers have even designed special lines of food products, mostly yogurt-based, claiming to help with slow intestinal motility and food transit time. But how effective are probiotics for constipation relief?

Some of these claims have been contested because it requires 3-4 servings per day of most yogurt products to produce the effects claimed, and even then, it doesn’t work for every person. Those seeking relief from constipation don’t always have the time or money to eat three servings of specialty products each day.

So, what are the right probiotic supplements to take if you are feeling constipated?

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How It Works:

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Dosage:

Between 1 - 10 Billion CFUs per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Probiotics for Constipation

Constipation is a widespread problem affecting over 13% of all adults. Each year, it is estimated that 3.2 million doctor visits in the USA are because of constipation or related issues.

The economic impact of constipation cannot be ignored, either, with nearly $750 million being spent annually by Americans as they attempt to find relief.

The use of probiotics for treating constipation and bowel regularity is well-researched. It has been shown, through clinical trials, that certain causes of constipation can be effectively reduced with supplementation of the right probiotic bacteria.

One common cause of constipation is a shortage of certain species of bacteria in the colon. This problem is often seen frequently in conjunction with an overabundance of unfriendly bacteria within the small and large intestine.

Also, some individuals with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) have found relief from constipation by experimenting with combinations of different species and strains of probiotics for constipation relief. Because IBS symptoms can be very individualized, signs often vary in degree and duration for each person.

Pinpointing a single probiotic which will be helpful can be a difficult proposition, but there are formulas containing several species and strains which have been shown to be helpful to those suffering with IBS and this is often a good place to start.

Researchers at King’s College in London selected 14 studies, all of which included placebo-controlled groups. Pooling the aggregate findings, they found that probiotics, on average, could slow gut transit time for 12.4 hours, increase weekly bowel movements by 1.3 times and help to soften stools, allowing them to pass easier.

The probiotic bacteria most commonly used in these 14 clinical trials was bifidobacterium lactis.

The Right Probiotics for Constipation

Research shows distinctive differences in the gut flora of healthy individuals and those who experience chronic constipation. Most often, constipation is due to dysbiosis, which in simpler language is an imbalance in the microflora.

For example, people with chronic constipation have higher counts of different species of Clostridia than their non-constipated counterparts.

Similar to the aggregate study noted above, strains of B. lactis bacteria were shown in another study to increase stool frequency, decrease difficulty with elimination, and improve stool consistency.

This study included 135 women and lasted for a period of two weeks during which 12.5 billion CFU (colony forming units) were taken.

Other species of probiotic organisms which may hold promise for constipation sufferers include:

• Bifidobacterium infantis
• Lactobacillus casei Shirota
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus

Where to Start

Constipation is primarily a problem which occurs within the colon (the large intestine), so targeting the bacteria which naturally colonize the colon seems like a logical place to start.

Bifidobacterium lives predominantly within the colon, making B. lactis, B. infantis, B. longum and B. animalis good contenders.

Prebiotics may also help the problem as they provide additional colonization stimuli and space for the beneficial microbes, enhancing their competitive edge over unhealthy bacteria. Eating naturally raw and fibrous foods may help the probiotic organisms, as well.

Side Effects

Most people can take probiotics for constipation without experiencing any side effects. Those who do have side effects usually report bloating or gas but these symptoms generally subside with continued use.

Those with known medical conditions should talk with their doctor before beginning a probiotic regimen.

Final Thoughts

Research is currently underway, but large-scale clinical trials using specific species and strains are still needed to clarify the best probiotic bacteria to help with chronic and occasional constipation.

What is known is that probiotics, particularly Bifidobacterium species like B. lactis and B. infantis, can and do have an impact on the flora within the small and large intestine. Influencing the balance of the bacteria within the colon appears to have a positive effect on those with constipation.

Probiotics for constipation are readily available in specialty formulas or stand-alone strains.

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