Supplement Combination May Help Improve Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Bacteriophages infect and kill specific bacteria without any negative effect on human cells. According to a new study, supplementation with a combination of probiotics and bacteriophages may help reduce gastrointestinal distress and inflammation.

Sixty-six adults participated in the study. They were given a probiotic containing the Bifidobacterium animalissubspecies lactisstrain, the probiotic plus bacteriophages, or a placebo daily for 4 weeks. Participants completed a digestive health questionnaire at baseline and at the end of the study period. Stool samples were taken and used to evaluate gut microbial populations.

Participants in the probiotic and bacteriophage group reported the greatest improvements in self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms and reductions in average symptom severity compared to the other two groups. They also saw a trend towards reduced colonic cramp discomfort. In addition, the probiotic plus bacteriophage group saw a larger increase in the friendly gut bacteria Lactobacillus.

The study was conducted by researchers from Colorado State University. It was published online ahead of print on August 17, 2020 in the journal Nutrients.