Probiotics Reduce IBS Flares

ANN ARBOR, Mich.Scientists from University of Michigan found probiotics reduced irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) intestinal flare-ups caused by stress. The new study, published in Gastroenterology, revealed probiotics reversed the inhibition of inflammasomes, which maintain normal gut microbiota (Gastroenterology. 2013 Mar 4. pii: S0016-5085(13)00287-4.).

Using mice, researchers analyzed the effects of probiotics and gut inflammation. The stressed mice produced corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), inhibiting the inflammasomes and consequently causing inflammation in the intestines. However, pretreatment with probiotics decreased inflammation.

Probiotics have long taken hold of the gut health segment, and recent research is boosting its reputation. Learn more about probiotic products' role in the industry in the article, "Probiotics Lead the Digestive Market."