Best probiotic for constipationBy Probiotic Expert: Dr. Raga

What is constipation?Constipation is defined as

unsatisfactory stool frequency (less than three times per week), feeling of incomplete defecation, and difficulty in passing stool (discomfort or straining).

In this condition, the stools are most commonly dry and hard. These may also be abnormally large or abnormally small.

Chronic constipation is reported to have a prevalence rate of 14% worldwide. Most of the cases are more frequent in women and those who have lower economic status.

What role does probiotics play in digestion?

1. AbsorptionProbiotics play an important

role in the body’s digestion by aiding in the absorption of nutrients from the food.

This occurs because of the enzymes that the probiotics release which is beneficial for both the probiotics and the digestive system.

What role does probiotics play in digestion?

2. Barrier against pathogensProbiotics are able to create an

environment which will act as a barrier against the bad bacteria or pathogenic microorganisms.

They do this role by coating the linings of the gastrointestinal tract to prevent the bad bacteria from attaching themselves there. Thus, it prevents the bad bacteria from colonizing because these microorganisms would not have space for the purpose of colonization and a source of nutrients.

What role does probiotics play in digestion?

3. Balance of the digestive tract environmentBy fighting off the bad bacteria in the

digestive tract, the probiotics are able to restore balance.

When balance in the gut is maintained, the symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, allergies, food intolerance, fatigue, and obesity.

Also, the imbalance in the good and bad bacteria in the gut (dysbiosis) can be prevented. Therefore, it reduces the likelihood of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

How can probiotics help in constipation?

There are some studies which showed that there are differences between the intestinal flora of people who have constipation and the healthy individuals. In these studies, it was found that people with severe constipation have unbalanced and increased intestinal flora.

There are some probiotics which are capable of producing lactic acid and short-chain fatty acids. These two can cause lowering in the pH of the intestines. As a result, this increases muscle contractions along the colon (peristalsis) to improve bowel regularity.

Cappropriate probiotics to useonsiderations in choosing the

Remember that every probiotic strain is unique from each other. It is essential to get informed about the research studies that were done to prove the effectiveness of certain probiotic strains.

It is important to know that there is no SINGLE strain of probiotics that is proven to relieve constipation. Also, what is considered to be an effective probiotic for constipation may not be the same with the other person who has a similar condition.

What is the best probiotic for constipation?1. Bacillus subtilis This probiotic is spore based and

completely dormant until it touches water. The spores will survive hundreds or perhaps millions of years while it is still in it's dormant state.

Clinical studies have shown that it has a high level of effectiveness, and can survive the harsh environments of the gastrointestinal tract.

Research studies about the effectiveness of Bacillus Subtilis probiotic

Bacillus subtilis is not just resistant in it's dormant state against time, but has shown to be very resilient and can survive the gastrointestinal tract.

In Korea and China, 38 studies were published in adults and 100 studies in infants and children. 23 of the studies were analysed and show that B. Subtilis helps with digestive problems such as chronic diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome. It helps get your gut workiner properly.

What is the best probiotic for constipation?

2. Bifidobacterium This strain of probiotics

predominantly lives in the colon . Considering that, it is very appropriate that this is used for constipation since this condition occurs in the colon.

Some strains that are commonly used in probiotic products are B. Bifidum, B. Animalis, B. Longum, B. Lactis, and B. Infantis.

What is the best probiotic for constipation?Reseach studies about the effectiveness of Bifidobacterium

strain for constipation:Bifidobacterium lactis have been proven to allow the

conversion of prebiotics (food supply of probiotics) into short chain fatty acids. As a result of this process, the gut becomes better lubricated and peristalsis is naturally stimulated.

In a study conducted by Whorwell, it was discovered that B.infantis contributes in the improvement of bowel frequency in patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

According to study done by Guyonnet and colleagues, B.animalis can promote bowel motility and increase stool frequency in patients with constipation.

What is the best probiotic for constipation?3. LactobacillusAnother strain of probiotics

which is commonly used nowadays due to the numerous benefits that it gives to the body.

Some of the strains which are mostly utilized for constipation are lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus casei shirota, lactobacillus rhamnosus, and lactobacillus reuteri.

What is the best probiotic for constipation?Reseach studies about the effectiveness of

Lactobaciullus strain for constipation:A previous study used a probiotic drink with

lactobacillus casei shirota (65 milliliters per day) to determine its effect on constipated people. The results showed significant improvement in the stool consistency and relief of severe constipation.

Meanwhile, a study conducted by University of Naples in Italy have tested the effects of lactobacillus reuteri in 44 infants with chronic constipation. The study concluded that the infants given with this probiotic strain had more frequent bowel movements than those who are given with placebo.

My Favorite ProbioticProbacto is the best probiotic that I have ever

run into. They use multiple strains and they are spore forming so they can last while not refrigerated. They do not use cheap bacteria, but expensive ones such as B. Subtilis.

Probacto also contains prebiotics to help stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut.

Probacto contains digestive enzymes to assist in your digestion.

Probacto is enteric coated and made to be slow release so it will release in your gut gradually.

Conclusion

Studies about the effectiveness of probiotics for constipation have mixed results, but most of the time, these yield positive outcomes. With positive results, it is worth to give such probiotic products a try to relieve symptoms such as constipation. Also, it is advised that a person who is interested in trying probiotics for constipation should choose the products which have both lactobacilli and bifidobacteria to ensure effectiveness, high quality, and less side effects.