Probiotic Addresses Constipation

NAPLES, ItalyInfants with functional chronic constipation might benefit from supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri (DSM 17938), according to results from a recent University "Federico II" of Naples trial. Results were published in the October issue of the Journal of Pediatrics (2010 Oct;157(4):598-602).

The double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study was conducted from January 2008 to December 2008 and involved 44 consecutive infants at least 6 months old (male/female, 24/20) who were diagnosed with functional chronic constipation and were admitted to the Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Motility Unit of the universitys Department of Pediatrics. The infants were randomly assigned to receive either L.  reuteri (DSM 17938) or a placebo. Researchers collected data on the frequency of bowel movements per week, stool consistency, and presence of inconsolable crying episodes, all recorded in a daily diary by the infants parents.

Infants receiving L reuteri had a significantly higher frequency of bowel movements than infants receiving a placebo at week 2 (P=.042), week 4 (P=.008), and week 8 (P=.027) of supplementation. The While the number of treatment group infants with hardened stool decreased over the course of the study, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the stool consistency at all weeks (P=.63, week 2; P=.38, week 4; P=.48, week 8). Likewise, there was no statistically differencebetween the groups in the presence of inconsolable crying episodes. No adverse effects were reported.

Researchers noted due to a good safety profile, probiotics may be an attractive option in the treatment of functional constipation.