Prebiotics and SCFA Alleviate Parkinson's-Related Constipation: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gastroenterology
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Constipation affects up to 90% of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, often preceding motor symptoms.
• Gut microbiota imbalance and reduced short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production are implicated in PD pathogenesis.
• Targeting gut health may offer therapeutic benefits for PD non-motor symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of SCFA, prebiotic 2-fucosyllactose (2-FL), or their combination in alleviating constipation in PD patients.
• To assess the impact of these interventions on patient quality of life.
• To explore the role of gut health in PD symptom management.

Main Methods:

• A 6-month, double-blind, randomized clinical trial involving 72 PD patients.
• Participants were assigned to SCFA, 2-FL, or combined supplementation groups.
• Constipation and quality of life were measured using validated scales (Cleveland Clinic Constipation Score, Bristol Stool Scale, PAC-QoL).

Main Results:

• Both 2-FL and combined supplementation significantly reduced constipation severity after 6 months.
• The combination therapy demonstrated the most significant and sustained improvements in stool consistency, frequency, and patient-reported outcomes.
• Physical activity levels did not change and did not influence constipation outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Combined prebiotic (2-FL) and SCFA supplementation is an effective strategy for managing constipation in Parkinson's disease.
• This intervention notably improves the quality of life for PD patients experiencing constipation.
• Further research is warranted to investigate long-term effects and potential disease-modifying properties.