Probiotic and Prebiotic Supplementation for Gastrointestinal Discomfort in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury (PRO-GIDSCI): A...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gastroenterology
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort affects up to 70% of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Gut dysbiosis, altered transit time, and reduced GI motility contribute to these symptoms in SCI.
• Limited data exist on the efficacy of prebiotics and probiotics for managing GI issues in SCI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of prebiotic and probiotic supplementation on GI symptoms and quality of life in individuals with chronic SCI.
• To assess changes in GI transit time, inflammatory markers, and gut microbiome composition.

Main Methods:

• A single-center randomized controlled crossover trial involving adults (≥18 years) with chronic SCI (≥1 year) and significant GI symptoms.
• Participants were randomized to receive either a probiotic or prebiotic supplement for eight weeks, followed by a four-week washout period, and then the alternate supplement.
• Exclusion criteria included current antibiotic use, relevant eating/digestive disorders, or recent diet changes.

Main Results:

• The primary outcome measure is the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index.
• Secondary outcomes include GI transit time, inflammatory blood markers, and gut microbiome composition.
• Data analysis will determine the comparative effects of prebiotic and probiotic interventions.

Conclusions:

• This trial will provide crucial data on the effectiveness of prebiotics and probiotics for managing GI dysfunction in SCI.
• Findings may inform clinical practice and improve patient outcomes for individuals with SCI-related GI issues.