Effect of Lactobacillus Plantarum 299v on Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Randomised Controlled Trial: Effect of Lactobacillus Plantarum 299v on Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

In patients with IBS, will supplementation with a probiotic demonstrate symptomatic efficacy and will the probiotic influence gut microflora and thus improve clinical outcomes, as compared to no intervention.

Conduct a study on nutrient intakes gastrointestinal microbiota and the effect of a probiotic, Lactobacillus plantarum 299v in irritable bowel syndrome patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• fulfillment of the Rome II criteria for IBS,
• availability of at least one colonoscopy within the last three years,
• aged 18 or older at the time of screening,
• provision of written informed consent,
• commitment of availability throughout the 12 week study period.

Exclusion Criteria:

• major abdominal surgery in the past other than other than appendectomy, caesarean section, tubal laparoscopic cholecystectomy, abdominal wall hernia repair or/and hysterectomy,
• current use of antibiotics,
• history of organic intestinal disease,
• pregnant or breastfeeding mothers,
• chronic infectious disease like HIV or tuberculosis, and
• unable to understand English or Afrikaans.