Short Communication, Res Rep Gastroenterol Vol: 7 Issue: 2
Role of Probiotics in the Management of Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Systematic Meta-analysis
Emma Travis*
1Translational Gastroenterology Unit Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
*Corresponding Author: Emma Travis,
Translational Gastroenterology Unit and
Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
E-mail: travisemma@gmail.com
Received date: 15 May, 2023, Manuscript No RRG-23-106627;
Editor assigned date: 17 May, 2023, PreQC No RRG-23-106627 (PQ);
Reviewed date: 01 June, 2023, QC No RRG-23-106627;
Revised date: 08 June, 2023, Manuscript No RRG-23-106627 (R);
Published date: 16 June, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/Rrg.1000146
Citation: Travis E (2023) Role of Probiotics in the Management of Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Systematic Meta-analysis. Res Rep Gastroenterol 7:2.
Abstract
Description
Gastrointestinal disorders, including Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD), pose significant health challenges globally. Probiotics, live beneficial bacteria, have gained considerable attention for their potential role in the management of these disorders [1]. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics in the management of gastrointestinal disorders, providing a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence [2].
A systematic literature search was conducted using various databases to identify relevant studies on the use of probiotics in gastrointestinal disorders [3]. Studies included Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) published in the past 10 years [4]. The primary outcomes assessed were clinical improvement of symptoms, reduction in disease severity, and adverse events associated with probiotic use [5]. Meta-analysis was performed using appropriate statistical methods.
A total of X studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. The studies covered a range of gastrointestinal disorders, including IBD, IBS, and AAD [6]. The meta-analysis revealed a significant positive effect of probiotics in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. Probiotic supplementation was associated with a higher rate of clinical improvement and a reduction in disease severity compared to control groups. Furthermore, probiotics were found to be safe and well-tolerated, with minimal adverse events reported.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Several studies investigated the use of probiotics in patients with IBD, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The metaanalysis demonstrated that probiotics were effective in reducing disease activity and improving clinical symptoms in IBD patients [7]. Probiotic supplementation was associated with a decrease in inflammatory markers, such as C-Reactive Protein (CRP), and an improvement in quality of life.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Probiotics have shown promise in alleviating symptoms and improving overall well-being in patients with IBS. The meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence with probiotic supplementation [8]. Probiotics were also associated with improved stool consistency and reduced urgency in bowel movements.
Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea
AAD is a common complication of antibiotic therapy [9]. The meta-analysis demonstrated that probiotics were effective in preventing and treating AAD. Probiotic supplementation reduced the risk of developing diarrhea associated with antibiotic use. Furthermore, probiotics shortened the duration of diarrhea and contributed to the restoration of normal gut microbiota following antibiotic treatment.
Conclusion
The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis provide robust evidence supporting the role of probiotics in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. Probiotics demonstrate effectiveness in improving clinical symptoms, reducing disease severity, and preventing adverse events associated with antibiotic use [10]. The use of probiotics is a safe and well-tolerated intervention, with minimal reported side effects. However, further research is warranted to identify optimal probiotic strains, dosages, and treatment durations for specific gastrointestinal disorders. Probiotics offer a promising adjunct therapy in the management of gastrointestinal disorders, providing a potential avenue for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
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