Probiotics for gas and bloating
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Probiotics for Gas and Bloating: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Probiotics and Gastrointestinal Health
Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, have been increasingly studied for their potential to alleviate gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as gas and bloating. These symptoms are common and can significantly impact quality of life. This article synthesizes recent research on the efficacy of various probiotic strains in reducing gas and bloating.
Bacillus Subtilis: Promising Results for Gas-Related Symptoms
Bacillus Subtilis BS50
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of Bacillus subtilis BS50 on GI symptoms in healthy adults. The study found that daily supplementation with 2 × 10^9 CFU of BS50 for six weeks significantly improved symptoms of bloating, burping, and flatulence compared to a placebo. Specifically, 47.4% of participants in the BS50 group showed improvement, compared to 22.2% in the placebo group, indicating a higher likelihood of symptom relief with BS50.
Bacillus Subtilis MB40
Another study evaluated Bacillus subtilis MB40 for its efficacy in reducing abdominal discomfort, gas, and bloating. While the overall results did not show significant differences between the MB40 and placebo groups, a sub-group analysis revealed that males experienced clinically significant reductions in bloating intensity and duration, as well as improvements in general health scores.
Bacillus Coagulans: Effective for IBS and Functional Bloating
Bacillus Coagulans MTCC 5856
Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856, also known as LactoSpore, was studied for its effects on functional gas and bloating. Participants who received 2 billion spores per day for four weeks showed significant improvements in GI symptoms, including a reduction in the GSRS indigestion scores for gas and bloating. The probiotic group also reported better overall patient scores compared to the placebo group.
Network Meta-Analysis on IBS
A comprehensive network meta-analysis assessed various probiotics for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Bacillus coagulans was found to be the most effective in improving global symptoms, abdominal pain, bloating, and straining scores. The analysis highlighted that B. coagulans had a prominent efficacy in treating IBS symptoms, making it a strong candidate for future research and clinical guidelines.
Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium: Mixed Results
Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium Lactis
A double-blind study examined the effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 on bloating in patients with functional bowel disorders. The results indicated significant improvements in bloating severity at both four and eight weeks compared to the placebo group, supporting the role of these probiotics in managing functional bowel disorders.
Bifidobacterium Animalis Subspecies Lactis
A systematic review and meta-analysis focused on Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis found that while this probiotic increased defecation frequency and improved stool consistency, it did not significantly alleviate abdominal pain and bloating. This suggests that while B. animalis may benefit certain GI functions, its effects on bloating are limited.
Probiotics in Systemic Sclerosis
A pilot study explored the use of probiotics in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated GI bloating and distention. The study found significant improvements in bloating and overall GI symptoms after two months of daily probiotic use, indicating potential benefits for this specific patient population.
Conclusion
The evidence suggests that certain probiotic strains, particularly Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus coagulans, show promise in alleviating gas and bloating. While results vary among different strains and patient populations, these probiotics offer a safe and natural option for managing GI symptoms. Further research is needed to establish standardized treatment protocols and to explore the long-term benefits of probiotic supplementation.
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