Should You Use Probiotics for Constipation?

Probiotics have been studied for their effects on constipation across a wide range of conditions.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder that can lead to numerous symptoms, including stomach pain, bloating, and constipation (4).

Probiotics are often used to aid IBS symptoms, including constipation.

One review of 24 studies showed that probiotics reduced the severity of symptoms and improved bowel habits, bloating, and quality of life in people with IBS (5).

Another study in 150 people with IBS revealed that supplementing with probiotics for 60 days helped improve bowel regularity and stool consistency (6).

What’s more, in a 6-week study in 274 people, drinking a probiotic-rich, fermented milk beverage increased stool frequency and reduced IBS symptoms (7).

Childhood constipation

Constipation in children is common and can be caused by various factors, including diet, family history, food allergies, and psychological issues (8).

Multiple studies indicate that probiotics relieve constipation in children.

For instance, a review of 6 studies found that taking probiotics for 3–12 weeks increased stool frequency in children with constipation, while a 4-week study in 48 children linked this supplement to improved frequency and consistency of bowel movements (9, 10).

However, other studies provide mixed results. Thus, more research is needed (11).

Pregnancy

Up to 38% of pregnant women experience constipation, which can be caused by prenatal supplements, hormonal fluctuations, or changes in physical activity (12).

Some research suggests that taking probiotics during pregnancy may prevent constipation.

In a 4-week study in 60 pregnant women with constipation, eating 10.5 ounces (300 grams) of probiotic yogurt enriched with Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus bacteria daily increased the frequency of bowel movements and improved several constipation symptoms (13).

In another study in 20 women, taking probiotics containing a mix of bacteria strains increased bowel movement frequency and improved constipation symptoms like straining, stomach pain, and the sense of incomplete evacuation (14).

Medications

Several medications may contribute to constipation, including opioids, iron pills, antidepressants, and certain cancer treatments (15, 16).

In particular, chemotherapy is a major cause of constipation. Around 16% of people undergoing this cancer treatment experience constipation (17).

In a study in nearly 500 people with cancer, 25% reported improvements in constipation or diarrhea after taking probiotics. Meanwhile, in a 4-week study in 100 people, probiotics improved constipation caused by chemotherapy in 96% of participants (18, 19).

Probiotics may also benefit those who experience constipation caused by iron supplements.

For example, a small, 2-week study in 32 women noted that taking a probiotic alongside an iron supplement every day increased bowel regularity and intestinal function, compared with taking a placebo (20).

Even so, more research is needed to determine whether probiotics can help relieve constipation caused by other medications, such as narcotics and antidepressants.

summary

Research shows that probiotics may treat childhood constipation and constipation caused by pregnancy, IBS, and certain medications.

Although probiotics are generally considered safe, they have a few side effects that you may want to consider.

When you’re first beginning to take them, they can cause digestive issues, such as stomach cramps, nausea, gas, and diarrhea (21).

However, these symptoms typically subside with continued use.

Some research suggests that probiotics may cause serious side effects, such as an increased risk of infection, in people with compromised immune systems (22).

Thus, if you have any underlying health conditions, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before taking probiotics.

summary

Probiotics can cause digestive issues, which typically subside over time. Yet, they may cause more serious side effects in those with compromised immune systems.

Picking the right probiotic is key to treating constipation, as certain strains may not be as effective as others.

Look for supplements that contain the following strains of bacteria, which have been shown to improve stool consistency (23, 24, 25):

• Bifidobacterium lactis
• Lactobacillus plantarum
• Streptococcus thermophilus
• Lactobacillus reuteri
• Bifidobacterium longum

Although there is no specific recommended dosage for probiotics, most supplements pack 1–10 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per serving (26).

For best results, use them only as directed and consider decreasing your dosage if you experience persistent side effects.

Given that supplements may take several weeks to work, stick to one specific type for 3–4 weeks to evaluate its effectiveness before switching.

Alternatively, try including a variety of probiotic foods in your diet.

Fermented foods like kimchi, kombucha, kefir, natto, tempeh, and sauerkraut are all rich in beneficial bacteria, as well as plenty of other important nutrients.

summary

Certain strains of probiotics may be more effective than others at treating constipation. Aside from taking supplements, you can eat fermented foods to increase your probiotic intake.

Probiotics offer several health benefits, one of which may be treating constipation (2).

Studies suggest that probiotics may relieve constipation related to pregnancy, certain medications, or digestive issues like IBS.

Probiotics are largely safe and effective, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet to improve bowel regularity.