Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bifidobacterium lactis is a probiotic bacterium commonly included in supplements and functional foods aimed at supporting gut health. Its use for constipation in adults is supported by a moderate body of scientific evidence, particularly from randomized controlled trials. Several studies have found that supplementation with B. lactis can improve bowel movement frequency and stool consistency in adults with constipation, especially functional or chronic constipation.

For instance, a 2015 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in Neurogastroenterology & Motility found that daily supplementation with B. lactis DN-173 010 significantly increased stool frequency and improved stool consistency over a 4-week period compared to placebo. Similar results have been observed with other strains, such as B. lactis HN019, which in a 2011 study increased the number of bowel movements and reduced gut transit time in constipated adults.

These effects are believed to result from B. lactis's ability to modulate the gut microbiota, produce short-chain fatty acids, and influence intestinal motility. However, results are not completely consistent across studies, and benefits may depend on the strain used, the dose, and the population studied. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that B. lactis is one of the more promising probiotic options for adult constipation, but further large-scale studies are encouraged to clarify optimal protocols and long-term safety.

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