A new study found supplementing with a Probiotic containing Bifidobacterium longum daily could improve bowel movements and especially stool frequency.
80 seniors over the age of 65 and diagnosed with chronic constipation participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel-group study. Participants received either a daily Probiotic or a Placebo. The study lasted four weeks.
Significant improvements in CSS (Constipation Scoring System) scores were seen in the group supplementing with the Probiotic (CSS score dropped from 10.26 +/- 3.29 to 7.78 +/- 4.30 at the study’s end). No significant changes were seen in the placebo group. Researchers also saw improvements in stool frequency in the Probiotic group and no significant changes in the placebo group. Additionally there were significant differences between the supplement group and the placebo group in terms of “failure of evacuation”. This refers to unsuccessful attempts in bowel emptying for every 24 hour period. The supplement group saw reductions in “failure of evacuation” from .83 +/- .45 to .61 +/- .96 by the end of the study. Improvements in “failure of evacuation” lasted even four weeks past the study period. The placebo group saw no improvements in this category.
Further studies with larger numbers of participants are needed.
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