Do Probiotics Work for IBS? 6 Reasons to Take Them

Some evidence shows that probiotics do work for irritable bowel syndrome, more frequently referenced as IBS.

However, using probiotics for relief of abdominal discomfort from IBS depends on a patient’s condition, so IBS sufferers should talk to their doctors about treatment options.

IBS causes such symptoms as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea to the point where it can affect the quality of life.

Probiotics are known as the “good” bacteria in the intestines that balance the digestive tract.

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Probiotics are found also in dietary supplements and foods, such as yogurt, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Here are six reasons to consider using probiotics to deal with IBS:

1. The healthy bacteria could relieve symptoms because people with IBS might not have enough of the good bacteria, but more research is needed, the Mayo Clinic notes.

2. Some studies indicate probiotic supplements do work for IBS, according to WebMD. Supplements containing Bifidobacterium infantis could relieve abdominal pain, bloating, and irregularity.

3. Probiotic supplements don't appear to cause harm and may help some patients, says Dr. Lawrence Schiller, a Dallas gastroenterologist. However, he says many studies are not clear on bacterial strains or dosage.

“The best evidence for probiotics is with some of the combination products and some that contain bifida bacteria, not acidophilus or lactobilli,” Schiller told WebMD.

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4. Researchers reviewing various studies reported in the January 2010 issue of Gastroenterology & Hepatology that probiotics appear to balance gut bacteria to benefit IBS patients, though it was not known why they relieve symptoms.


5. The American College of Gastroenterology stated that probiotics can improve bloating and flatulence in IBS patients in its 2014 updated review of evidence about IBS management for physicians.

The ACG also recommended fiber to relieve IBS symptoms, reported Healthline.

6. Schiller, who served on the ACG Functional Bowel Disorders Task Force, says more studies are needed to understand the effectiveness of probiotics and other methods to treat IBS symptoms.

Some patients may benefit from probiotics, but it is best for them to keep a record on their symptoms, when they occur and the foods they are eating at the time. This can help pinpoint the cause of symptoms to know if probiotics do work for IBS.

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