The Low Down on Probiotics
Do probiotics help improve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms?
This is a multibillion-dollar question about a multibillion-dollar industry.
Probiotics are one of the many treatment options that can be utilised to help manage and improve IBS symptoms. Scientific evidence suggests that certain strains of probiotics can help to improve diarrhoea, constipation and bloating for IBS sufferers. However, the jury is still out when determining just how effective they can be. Some will notice improvements in their symptoms, whereas for others, not so much. To complicate matters, there are many different types of probiotics on the market and many different types and causes of IBS.
This article will explore the research regarding probiotics and unpack whether they can really help with your IBS symptoms.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are defined as “live microorganisms, which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.”
This definition does not mean that each specific strain will help each form of IBS. Generally, specific strains will improve specific IBS symptoms.
Probiotics can come in powders, capsules, liquids, and fermented food products.
How can probiotics help improve IBS?
Probiotics can help improve your IBS symptoms by:
Increasing the “beneficial” bacteria in the large intestine.
Decreasing the number of “bad” bacteria that contribute to symptoms.
Influencing the gut-brain connection.
Decreasing the hypersensitivity that is associated with pain from IBS.
Offsetting the negative changes to the gut microbiota that can result from following a low FODMAP diet.
Which probiotic should I take?
When it comes to choosing a probiotic, some things to look for are:
Make sure that the colony forming units (CFU) count is at least 1 billion CFU per serving.
Ensure it contains well-studied strains such as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium infants.
Consider other ingredients in the probiotic supplement that may be poorly tolerated such as FODMAPs, including inulin or GOS.
Ultimately, the probiotic that is most likely to work for you depends on the type of IBS you have. Your TDC dietitian can help recommend a specific type of probiotic based on your personal circumstances.
When is a probiotic most effective?
The current research suggests that you should use the probiotic daily. It can take 3-4 weeks before you start to notice a difference in symptoms. If you don’t notice a difference after 12 weeks of use, discontinue the probiotic or consider using a different product.
Taking a probiotic supplement is most effective when it is taken alongside other IBS interventions such as lifestyle modification or the low FODMAP diet. Taking a probiotic supplement is not a magic pill that will cure you of your symptoms. However, it can certainly help!
Take home message?
While the research on probiotics is not black or white, the current consensus is simple.
On average, probiotics can help manage IBS symptoms. The amount they help may not be large or consistent. However, it can be enough to improve overall symptom management when used alongside other IBS interventions.
Work with our dietitian who can match your symptoms with a specific probiotic product to optimise your chances of successful supplementation.
This blog artical was written by
Michelle Keaughran.
Accredited Practising Dietitian & Nutritionist
Director of The Digestion Co.
This blog article does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are interested in trialling a probiotic, speak with your GP or Accredited Practising Dietitian regarding a suitable probiotic product for you.
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