Irritable bowel syndrome, also called IBS, is common condition of the large intestine. The symptoms of this disease include intestinal cramping, bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea and pain in the abdomen. Most people with condition have mild or moderate symptoms, and only a few experience very severe symptoms. Probiotics, which are bacteria that are healthy for your intestine, have been investigated for their ability to effectively reduce IBS symptoms.
Evidence
In April 2009, Dr. Darren Brenner and colleagues conducted a meta-analysis of the studies that had investigated how well probiotics treat IBS. According to findings published in the March 2010 "American Journal of Gastroenterology," the team determined that Bifidobacterium infantis, which is one type of probiotic bacteria, is effective in reducing IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel movement difficulty. However, no other type of probiotic was deemed effective in reducing IBS symptoms.
Mechanism
The putative mechanism by which probiotics improve IBS symptoms is by the implantation and growth of these bacteria in the intestines. Bacteria are always growing in normal, healthy intestines, but sometimes one type of bacteria can outgrow another, thereby becoming the predominant bacteria species in the intestine. Taking probiotics allows "healthy" bacteria to outgrow other bacteria types that promote the symptoms associated with IBS. The theory is that, once healthy bacteria predominate over other types, IBS symptoms dissipate.
Considerations
Because probiotics are live organisms, it is important to note that each preparation, even of the same species of bacteria, may differ significantly, and therefore each preparation may have different effects on IBS symptoms. Additionally, people at risk for developing opportunistic infections, such as with depressed immune systems, should not take probiotics. Some probiotic preparations require special storage conditions, such as refrigeration. Make sure to read the associated instructions so that you are informed of storage conditions and expiration dates.
Dose
The amount of bacteria is typically expressed as colony forming units, or CFU. To treat IBS, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 5 to 10 billion CFU each day. When taking any probiotic supplement, make sure to carefully read the instructions on the label and talk to your doctor if you have any questions. Also, consult a medical professional before beginning a probiotic regimen to treat IBS.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Harvard Health Publications: Understanding and Treating an Irritable Bowel
- "American Journal of Gastroenterology"; The utility of probiotics in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review; Darren Brenner, et al.; March 2010
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome -- Definition; July 29, 2009
- Drugs.com: Probiotics
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