Constipation No More: How Probiotics Can Help You Go!

What is constipation?

Constipation is when there is trouble with passing stool, whether it be the frequency and/or the process itself. Some signs of constipation include: hard and dry stool that is tough to pass, pain with passing stools, fewer than three bowel movements per week and feeling that the bowel is not empty.

Causes of constipation

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints and can usually be solved by changing your lifestyle like diet, medication (if any) and exercise. However, it could be cause by other underlying problems. Causes for constipation include:

Lifestyle

• Low Fiber Diet: Insufficient intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lead to harder stools.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can make stools dry and difficult to pass.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can slow down digestion and increase the risk of constipation.
• Ignoring the Urge to Go: Delaying bowel movements can disrupt the natural urge and lead to constipation.

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

• IBS can manifest as constipation-predominant (IBS-C), where individuals experience irregular bowel movements along with abdominal discomfort.

Chronic Constipation

• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Issues with the muscles involved in bowel movements can contribute to chronic constipation.

Other Causes

• Hormonal Changes: Conditions like hypothyroidism can slow down metabolism and lead to constipation.
• Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis can affect gut motility.
• Structural Issues: Problems like bowel obstructions can impede normal bowel function.

While it may be difficult to identify the exact cause, constipation occurs when our large intestines absorbs too much water from our waste which makes it more solid. Anything that affects our digestion and bowel movement can contribute to this.

Probiotics and constipation

Research has shown that patients with IBS-C have a lower level of Actinobacteria, including Bifidobacteria, in their fecal samples and a higher level of Bacteroidetes in their mucosa.

Thus, the intake of probiotics can regulate our microbiota, increase the levels of organic acids to promote muscle movement to help move food through your gastrointestinal tract, shorten the colon operation time, ultimately help with constipation

Probiotic Strains Related to Constipation

• Bifidobacterium lactis: This strain helps improve bowel regularity by enhancing the gut environment and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
• Lactobacillus plantarum: Known for its ability to ferment fiber, this strain can help soften stools and improve overall gut motility.
• Streptococcus thermophilus: This strain aids in lactose digestion and can help maintain a balanced gut microbiota, contributing to regular bowel movements.
• Lactobacillus reuteri: Recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, this strain can support gut health and alleviate symptoms of constipation.
• Bifidobacterium longum: This strain helps break down carbohydrates and can improve gut function, promoting more regular bowel movements.

References

Common causes of constipation - Harvard Health. (2018, August 23). Harvard Health; Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/common-causes-of-constipation

‌Constipation - Symptoms and causes. (2023). Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354253

Learn. (2023, September 7). Constipation: Symptoms & Causes. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4059-constipation