Bloating from probiotics
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Bloating from Probiotics: An Overview of Current Research
Introduction to Probiotics and Bloating
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. They are commonly used to improve gut health and alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders. However, their impact on bloating, a common symptom of various functional bowel disorders (FBDs) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), has shown mixed results in clinical studies.
Probiotics and Bloating in Non-Patients
A study investigating the probiotic Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 in non-patients with abdominal discomfort and bloating found no significant improvement in symptom severity compared to a placebo. However, there was a notable increase in the frequency of bloating-free days in the probiotic group. This suggests that while probiotics may not reduce the severity of bloating in non-patients, they could potentially increase the number of symptom-free days.
Probiotics and Bloating in Functional Bowel Disorders
Several studies have explored the effects of different probiotic strains on bloating in patients with FBDs. A double-blind study demonstrated that Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 significantly improved bloating symptoms compared to a placebo over an 8-week period . These findings support the role of specific probiotic strains in managing bloating in FBD patients.
Probiotics and Bloating in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Research on IBS patients has shown varying results. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that certain probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, can significantly relieve bloating and other IBS symptoms at specific dosages. Another meta-analysis highlighted that multispecies probiotics are more effective in reducing bloating compared to single-species probiotics. These studies underscore the importance of strain-specific and dosage-specific effects of probiotics in IBS treatment.
Probiotics and Bloating in Constipation
In patients with functional constipation, a combination of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains did not show significant improvement in bloating compared to a placebo. However, there was a significant reduction in flatulence, which is often associated with bloating. This suggests that while probiotics may not directly reduce bloating in constipated patients, they can alleviate related symptoms.
Probiotics and Bloating in Systemic Sclerosis
A pilot study on systemic sclerosis patients with gastrointestinal bloating found that probiotics significantly improved bloating and other gastrointestinal symptoms. This indicates that probiotics may be beneficial in treating bloating associated with systemic conditions.
Conclusion
The efficacy of probiotics in reducing bloating varies depending on the population and specific probiotic strains used. While some studies show significant improvements in bloating symptoms, others do not, highlighting the need for further research to identify the most effective strains and dosages. Overall, probiotics appear to offer some benefit in managing bloating, particularly in patients with FBDs and IBS, but their effects can be highly strain-specific and context-dependent.
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