"IBS probiotics, I've heard they are good in IBS, is this true?"
Now, what about
IBS probiotics
? Probiotics and
ibs
have been linked for quite a while now. I expect that you have heard about them in the press mainly. Do they have a role in the management of the condition? Well probably is the answer!
IBS Probiotics are essentially bacteria present in food stuffs such as yoghurt and drinks. They can also be in tablets and elixirs. They are the so called "good bacteria" as they don't cause harm when ingested and can help with Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. It is thought they either compete with 'bad bacteria' or help add to 'good bacteria' in the gut.
The bowel contains trillions of bacteria and it doesn't take much to upset the composition of them. Antibiotic use, surgery, gastroenteritis (a common trigger for the condition) and altered immunity can all play a role in this and it seems logical that replacing them might help. I'm sure you have noticed the effect antibiotics have on your bowel when you've previously taken them!
There are many different probiotics, but the two main bacteria used are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacter. They are not the 'cure', but I think in years to come, they will be used to greater affect.
The other exciting development is 'prebiotics' which are essentially food for 'good' bacteria. They are non-digestible and can be targeted at certain bacteria to promote their growth in the gut. This technology is still in its infancy and will likely expand as research develops in this area.
One recent study of a probiotic called
ProVen
has shown some promise. In due course, I hope to bring you more details of the developments in probiotics for
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
, so stay in touch!
Probiotics and ibs should be considered.
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