The Sheffield IBS Trial
Clinical trial: a multistrain probiotic preparation significantly reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a double-blind placebo-controlled study
Aim
This randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled study investigated the effect of supplementation with Lab4 probiotics to significantly reduce the symptoms of IBS.
Method
- Number of days with pain
- Level of abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Quality of life
- Satisfaction with bowel habit
Results
The participants taking the Lab4 probiotics showed significant improvement in Total IBS symptoms compared to placebo (*P<0.05).
By two weeks after the intervention, no significant difference could be detected between the probiotic and placebo groups.
A significant reduction in days with pain and bloating was achieved with the Lab4 probiotic group.
Satisfaction with bowel habit and quality of life were significantly improved in the Lab4 probiotic group (reduction in the symptom severity scores).
Total IBS symptoms during follow up time (weeks):
Days with pain:
Days with bloating:
Satisfaction with bowel habit:
Quality of life:
Conclusion
The Lab4 probiotics significantly reduced total symptoms and improved quality of life in diagnosed IBS sufferers. Continued supplementation was considered necessary to sustain this improvement.
Reference
Williams EA et al 2008.
Clinical trial: a multistrain probiotic preparation significantly reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a double-blind placebo-controlled study.
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 29: 97-103
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