Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common disorder, affecting between 10 and 15 percent of the population, according to "The Australian Physician." Although the disorder is not life-threatening, it may cause significant pain and a decrease in the quality of life. The exact cause of IBS is not known, and a cure for the syndrome has not been found; however, a few therapies have been shown to possibly alleviate the symptoms of IBS. One of the therapies currently undergoing research is probiotic therapy.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition that tends to fluctuate in severity. IBS affects the bowel -- the intestinal tract -- and is characterized by symptoms which include cramping, abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. IBS is diagnosed after other causes of these symptoms, such as inflammation and infection, are excluded.
Causes
No single cause of IBS has been identified. Many factors have been identified, including problems with the muscle in the bowel, a decrease in healthy bacteria, an increase in harmful bacteria, small amounts of inflammation and an increased sensitivity to pain in the bowel. These factors cause the bowel to function abnormally: Food passes either too fast or too slow through the bowel, causing diarrhea or constipation; the muscle in the wall of the bowel may contract too strongly, leading to pain and cramping; and the nerves in the bowel may be very sensitive to stretching and cause pain.
Probiotics
Probiotic therapy may be helpful in cases of IBS. Probiotics are defined by the World Health Organization as "live microorganisms, which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host." These organisms include bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria species. These "good bacteria are found in certain foods, such as yogurt, miso and tempeh; they can also be taken in the form of capsules or powders.
Possible Effects
Probiotics may help improve the symptoms of IBS in a number of ways. They may help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the bowel, and they may help to support the immune system. Probiotics may secrete substances that help protect and nourish the cells in the bowel and that may cause a decrease in proteins in the bowel that could cause inflammation and pain.
Research
Research into the use of probiotics in the treatment of probiotics is still being performed. A number of studies have been reviewed by Dr. George Aragon and others in the journal "Gastroenterology and Hepatology." Conflicting results have been obtained: Some studies suggest that probiotics can alleviate the symptoms of IBS, while others suggest that probiotics provide no benefit. Additional studies are needed to determine whether probiotics are beneficial in IBS; however, some studies have suggested that a certain probiotic bacteria, Bifidobacterium, may be the organism that provides the most benefit in IBS.
Limitations
No standardized probiotic formulas are available. Different probiotic supplements may contain different strains of organisms, and in different amounts. The amount of live organisms ghzg find their way into the bowel may be different, depending on the preparation. Because of the lack of standardization, some patients with IBS may find relief with one type of probiotic supplement, but not another.
Recommendations
Before taking probiotics, it is essential for people with symptoms that suggest irritable bowel syndrome to visit a doctor for evaluation. Many more serious diseases may present with the same symptoms and may need more aggressive treatment. Patients with irritable bowel syndrome, with the permission of their doctors, may consider using probiotic supplements in conjunction with other types of therapy to attempt to relieve some symptoms of the condition.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: An Introduction to Probiotics
- "Gastroenterology and Hepatology"; Probiotic Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome; George Aragon, M.D., et al.; January 2010
- "Australian Family Physician"; Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Role of Complementary Medicines in Treatment; Marie Pirotta, Ph.D.; December 2009
