Probiotics are living micro-organisms that are thought to bring benefits to the human digestive system when ingested in certain amounts. These benefits include improved immune function, vitamin production, and better digestion. One common clinical test done to measure the performance of a person's digestive tract involves measuring the intestinal transit time (ITT), or the time it takes for food to go through your system (implying how well the intestines are working). Too slow (e.g., constipation) or too fast of an ITT (e.g., diarrhea) can both imply dysfunction of a person's intestinal tract.
In one systematic review study of 11 randomized-control trials, it was concluded that ingestion of certain strains of probiotic bacteria could lower ITT, which was especially seen in older adults and those with constipation (who have too high of an ITT). This supports the notion that probiotics may be a good alternative treatment for constipation, as long as it doesn't go as far as to cause diarrhea.
Now, what about probiotic use in healthy individuals? It seems that the evidence is scarce and contradictory. The authors of the systematic review claimed that the evidence is weak with regards to probiotic use in healthy individuals (who are not experiencing abdominal symptoms or pain). In fact, it's not even conclusive as to whether probiotics help with symptoms such as abdominal pain or symptoms, so is lowering ITT really that important besides, of course, helping with constipation?
So, before you start investing in twice-the-price "miraculous" probiotic yoghurt, talk to your physician or dietitian to see if probiotics are right for you!
Sources:
1.
Miller LE, Ouwehand AC. Probiotic supplementation decreases intestinal transit time: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. World J Gastroenterol. 2013 Aug 7;19(29):4718–25.
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