Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bifidobacterium bifidum is a probiotic bacterium that is commonly found in the human gut, especially in infants. Scientific interest in its use for treating constipation in children has grown in recent years. Several studies have evaluated the effects of various Bifidobacterium strains (including B. bifidum) on pediatric constipation. Some randomized controlled trials suggest that supplementation with Bifidobacterium-containing probiotics can help increase stool frequency, improve stool consistency, and reduce abdominal pain in children with functional constipation. However, the quality of evidence is modest, with some studies showing statistically significant benefits, and others showing minimal or no effect.

The mechanism by which B. bifidum may alleviate constipation is thought to involve modulation of the intestinal microbiota, production of short-chain fatty acids, and enhancement of gut motility. While the use of probiotics for constipation in children is not universally recommended by major pediatric societies, and evidence is not as robust as for other treatments (such as dietary fiber or osmotic laxatives), B. bifidum is sometimes used as an adjunctive therapy, particularly in children with mild to moderate symptoms or those whose constipation may be related to dysbiosis.

In summary, there is some scientific validation for the use of Bifidobacterium bifidum in pediatric constipation, but the overall evidence base is still limited, and more high-quality research is needed to determine its efficacy and optimal strains/dosing.

More about bifidobacterium bifidum
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Other ingredients used for Constipation (children)

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