Effect of Bifidobacterium breve on Childhood Constipation
Author Information
Author(s): Tabbers MM, Milliano I, Roseboom MG, Benninga MA
Primary Institution: Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
Is Bifidobacterium breve effective in the treatment of childhood constipation?
Conclusion
Bifidobacterium breve is effective in increasing stool frequency in children with functional constipation.
Supporting Evidence
- The defecation frequency per week significantly increased from 0.9 at baseline to 4.9 in week 4 (p < 0.01).
- The mean stool consistency score increased from 2.6 at baseline to 3.5 in week 4 (p = 0.03).
- The number of faecal incontinence episodes per week significantly decreased from 9.0 at baseline to 1.5 in week 4 (p < 0.01).
- Abdominal pain episodes per week significantly decreased from 4.2 at baseline to 1.9 in week 4 (p = 0.01).
- No side effects occurred during the study.
Takeaway
This study found that a probiotic called Bifidobacterium breve can help kids poop more often and feel better when they do.
Methodology
Children aged 3 to 16 with functional constipation received daily doses of Bifidobacterium breve for 4 weeks and recorded their bowel movements.
Potential Biases
The study may have selection bias due to its small sample size and lack of control group.
Limitations
This is a non-randomized, non-placebo controlled small pilot study.
Participant Demographics
20 children, 75% male, mean age 7.4 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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