Alteration of gut microbiota and efficacy of probiotics in functional constipation.

Abstract

were significantly less abundant in feces from patients with FC compared with healthy controls. However, no significant differences were observed regarding the proportion of Lactobacillus, Escherichia coli and Clostridium species. These results are partially consistent with previous studies that have analyzed the fecal microbiota in patients with FC. 7,8 Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus have been shown to be significantly less abundant in adult patients with constipation. 8 One study found that patients with constipation predominant-irritable bowel syndrome exhibited significantly less lactate-producing (bifidobacteria and lactobacilli) and lactate-utilizing bacteria in their feces compared with controls; moreover, the abundances of H2-consuming populations, methanogens and reductive acetogens were also significantly lower in these patients compared with controls. 7 In contrast, a study of children with constipation found that the levels of bifidobacteria and clostridia were increased in