Probiotics and Constipation in the Elderly

Probiotic Intake Improves Bowel Movement in Elderly with Chronic Constipation

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.…

Probiotics for Functional Constipation

Meta-Analysis Offers “Cautious Optimism” for Efficacy of Probiotics for Functional Constipation

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…