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 and Cognition

Probiotic May Boost Cognitive Function in Healthy Older People

A new study found a daily Probiotic supplement containing the Bifidobacterium longum strain, may improve measures of cognitive function like attention and memory in older people. 60 older people who were considered to be healthy participated in this randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study.  Participants were separate into two groups.  One group received the probiotics…

Digestive Enzymes and Digestion

Enzyme Supplements Could Improve Digestive Processes

Research suggests taking daily enzyme supplements appears to improve digestion as well as the absorption of nutrients. The study utilized a patented computer-controlled gastrointestinal model (TIM) which simulates the conditions of the human stomach and small intestines allowing a true comparison between healthy gastric and intestinal secretions and impaired digestion due to lower levels of…

Depression and Probitoics

Probiotics Improve Mood in People on Antidepressants

According to a new study recently published in Translational Psychiatry, a daily Probiotic supplement may aid in decreasing depression in people taking a prescription antidepressant. Almost 50 people participated in this 31 day study performed on inpatients at the University Psychiatric Clinics Basel Switzerland.  21 participants were given a Probiotic in addition to their antidepressant…

Probiotics and Half Marathon

Lactobacillus Plantarum Improves Half Marathon Recovery

A study of recreational runners found supplementing with Lactobacillus Plantarum was found to improve oxidative stress, renal damage and muscle damage caused by running a Half Marathon. 8 recreational runners (4 women and 4 men) between the ages of 23 and 30 participated in this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced crossover study.  Participants supplemented 3 capsules…

Probiotics and NAFLD

Probiotics May Play Complementary Role in Treating NAFLD

A new pilot study found that Probiotics may aid in protecting against increased intestinal permeability and help in stabilizing mucosal immune function in NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease). 32 individuals participated in this double-blind, placebo-controlled study.  The participants were split into two groups.  The first group comprising 15 individuals,  received a twice daily Probiotic supplement. …

Probiotics and Insomnia

Lactobacillus Plantarum Reduces Depression and Improves Sleep in Insomniacs

A new study has found daily supplementation with the specific Probiotic strain, Lactobacillus Plantarum, may reduce cortical excitation, fatigue, depressive symptoms and also improve sleep quality. 40 healthy self reporting individuals, between the ages of 20 and 40, who experienced insomnia, participated in this randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo controlled pilot trial.  Participant’s age, BMI (body…