Probiotics work by improving or preventingdysbiosis, which is animbalance of bacteriain the gut that can lead to inflammation.
This imbalance may contribute to symptoms like constipation.
So, do probiotics help with constipation?
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Probiotics may relieve chronic constipation by promoting a balancedgut microbiome, which helps regulate bowel movements.
As such, many probiotics used for constipation contain these two species of bacteria and their respective strains.
How Long Do They Take to Work?
Theres no clear timeline defined for how long it takes for probiotics to relieve constipation.
Studies show that it may take anywhere from two weeks to eight weeks for noticeable improvement.
And some people may not see any benefits at all.
The wide variability in studies and types of probiotics makes it difficult to predict how quickly they work.
They may recommend other ways to relieve constipation more quickly depending on your situation.
Can Probiotics Cause Diarrhea?
Some people may experience diarrhea when starting probiotics, especially if their gut is adjusting to them.
Thoughprobiotics rarely cause diarrhea, you may still have it as your body adjusts to the new bacteria.
If diarrhea persists or becomes severe or if it occurs alongside severe abdominal pain, seek medical advice.
It may be due to an underlying condition rather than the probiotic itself.
Laxatives are medications that are specifically taken to relieve constipation, while probiotics support overall gut health.
Restore balance to the gut microbiome, which can help improve bowel movements over time.
Take longer to show effects, often taking several weeks to make a noticeable difference.
Support overall gut health.
Work by helping stool move through the intestines or making them easier to pass.
Some are not recommended for long-term use because they can cause dependency and side effects.
Taken specifically for constipation.
As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
Whenchoosing a supplement, look for products independently tested or certified by organizations such asNSF,U.S.
Pharmacopeia (USP), orConsumerLab.com.
Some probiotic species, likeBifidobacteriumandLactobacillus, show the most promise for improving stool frequency.
Though probiotics are generally safe, they can cause mild side effects like bloating or gas.
Check with your healthcare provider before starting probiotics to ensure they are right for you.
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