11.01.11
Nutraceutical(s): Probiotics/Prebiotics/ Fiber
Indication: Constipation
Source: Pediatrics, October 2011;128(4):753-61.
Research: The goal of this study was to summarize the evidence and assess the reported quality of studies concerning non-pharmacologic treatments for childhood constipation, including fiber, fluid, physical movement, prebiotics, probiotics, behavioral therapy, multidisciplinary treatment and forms of alternative medicine. Researchers systematically searched three major electronic databases and reference lists of existing reviews. They included systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported on non-pharmacologic treatments. Two reviewers rated the methodological quality independently.
Results: Nine studies were included, totaling 640 children. Considerable heterogeneity across studies precluded meta-analysis. Researchers found no RCTs for physical movement, multidisciplinary treatment or alternative medicine. However, they found some evidence to show that fiber might be more effective than placebo in improving both the frequency and consistency of stools and in reducing abdominal pain. Compared with normal fluid intake, researchers found no evidence that water intake increases or that hyperosmolar fluid treatment is more effective in increasing stool frequency or decreasing difficulty in passing stools. Lastly, they found no evidence to recommend the use of prebiotics or probiotics.
Indication: Constipation
Source: Pediatrics, October 2011;128(4):753-61.
Research: The goal of this study was to summarize the evidence and assess the reported quality of studies concerning non-pharmacologic treatments for childhood constipation, including fiber, fluid, physical movement, prebiotics, probiotics, behavioral therapy, multidisciplinary treatment and forms of alternative medicine. Researchers systematically searched three major electronic databases and reference lists of existing reviews. They included systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported on non-pharmacologic treatments. Two reviewers rated the methodological quality independently.
Results: Nine studies were included, totaling 640 children. Considerable heterogeneity across studies precluded meta-analysis. Researchers found no RCTs for physical movement, multidisciplinary treatment or alternative medicine. However, they found some evidence to show that fiber might be more effective than placebo in improving both the frequency and consistency of stools and in reducing abdominal pain. Compared with normal fluid intake, researchers found no evidence that water intake increases or that hyperosmolar fluid treatment is more effective in increasing stool frequency or decreasing difficulty in passing stools. Lastly, they found no evidence to recommend the use of prebiotics or probiotics.