The effect of multistrain probiotics on functional constipation in the elderly: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal issue, especially in the elderly population.
• Functional constipation affects a significant number of older adults residing in nursing homes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and safety of a specific multistrain probiotic formulation for functional constipation in elderly individuals.
• To evaluate the impact of the probiotic on laboratory blood parameters in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-design study involving 60 elderly participants with functional constipation.
• Participants received either a liquid probiotic mixture (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BLC1, Lactobacillus acidophilus LA3, Lactobacillus casei BGP93) or a placebo.
• Laboratory blood parameters were monitored throughout the study.

Main Results:

• The probiotic group showed a significantly higher cumulative number of stools after 71 days, excluding laxative use (P < 0.05).
• A trend towards prolonged effects of the probiotic on stool frequency was observed, starting one week after intervention.
• No significant effects of treatment or time were found on most of the 27 tested laboratory blood parameters.

Conclusions:

• Multistrain probiotic supplementation demonstrated efficacy in improving functional constipation in the elderly.
• The tested probiotic formulation was found to be safe and well-tolerated in this population.
• Probiotics represent a viable option for managing constipation in older adults.