Probiotics Alleviate Functional Constipation in Adults

Assessing the Safety and Effectiveness of Bacillus Coagulans BC99 in Relieving Functional Constipation in Adults Based on Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials

To investigate the clinical effects of probiotics in relieving chronic constipation in adults, and evaluate the improvement of symptoms in patients with constipation as well as their impacts on gastrointestinal function, immunity, and gut microbiota.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Chinese adults aged 18-70 who meet the following Rome-IV diagnostic criteria for Functional constipation:

   i. If the following symptoms started at least 6 months ago and have been present for the past 3 months with two or more of the following:

   1. Straining during more than 25% of defecations
   2. Lumpy or hard stools (Bristol Stool Form Scale 1-2) more than 25% of defecations
   3. Sensation of incomplete evacuation more than 25% of defecations
   4. Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage more than 25% of defecations
   5. Manual maneuvers to facilitate more than 25% of defecations (e.g., digital evacuation, support of the pelvic floor)
   6. Fewer than three SBM per week ii Loose stools are rarely present without the use of laxatives iii. Insufficient criteria for irritable bowel syndrome.

2. Able to complete the study according to the requirements of the trial protocol;

3. Patients who have signed the informed consent form;

4. Research participants (including male participants) who have no fertility plans from 14 days before screening until 6 months after the end of the trial and are willing to take effective contraceptive measures.

Only those who meet all the above conditions can be selected for the study. -

Exclusion Criteria:

1. The use of probiotics, prebiotics, or antibiotics within 2 weeks of enrollment.
2. Regular use of a high-fiber diet, as measured by the recommended food score (RFS);
3. Regular use of medications affecting bowel habits, such as irritable bowel syndrome, functional bloating, and functional diarrhea.
4. Currently have, or have had in the past 2 years, any gastrointestinal conditions such as: Crohn's disease, celiac disease, Ulcerative colitis, Malignant tumor of the colon.
5. Medical history of cardiovascular, liver, or renal diseases; alcoholics.
6. Hypersensitivity to probiotics or the ingredients used in this study.
7. Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
8. Participation in another clinical trial in the 3 months before enrollment. All participants provided written informed consent. -