A new meta-analysis of 14 Randomized controlled trials shows probiotic supplementation with Bifidobacterium lactis, a specific strain of friendly bacteria, may help individuals with constipation by improving stool consistency and transit time.
Functional constipation or chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) affects approximately 14% of the population. Besides the affect on the patients quality of life (both mentally and physically), CIC has been estimated to cost approximately $2,000 to $7,500 per year per patient.
People with CIC most often use self management approaches to treat this condition. Additionally over half of these are unhappy with the relief they achieve with the laxatives (prescription or over the counter) and stool softeners they use.
The data gathered from the meta-analysis found improvements in gut transit times, increased stool frequency, improvements in stool consistency and reductions in bloating.
Further studies are needed.
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