The Sheffield IBS Trial
Clinical trial: a multistrain probiotic preparation significantly reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a double-blind placebo-controlled study
SUMMARY
This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effect of Lab4 multistrain probiotic preparation on the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
The significant reduction in total IBS symptoms was observed in IBS sufferers taking the Lab4 probiotics for 8 weeks.
Satisfaction with bowel habit and quality of life were significantly improved with Lab4 probiotics.
Continued Lab4 probiotic supplementation appears to be necessary to sustain the benefits.
Aim
This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effect of supplementation with Lab4 probiotics on the symptoms of IBS.
Method
Results
- The participants taking the Lab4 probiotics (Group 2) showed significant reduction in Total IBS symptoms (days with pain, severity of pain, days with bloating, satisfaction with bowel habit and quality of life) compared to placebo (Group 1, *P<0.05).
- The reductions in days with pain and bloating were achieved with Group 2.
- Satisfaction with bowel habit and quality of life were significantly improved in Group 2 (reduction in the symptom severity scores).
- Improvement in IBS symptoms diminished quickly when the Lab4 probiotic supplementation was discontinued (week 10, 2 weeks after the intervention).
