Effects of supplementation with probiotics on improving constipation in physically active women

Abstract

Introduction: Over the years, the prevalence of women who practice bodybuilding has increased for many reasons, including weight loss and aesthetics. Many women have resorted to miraculous dieting practices harming their health, especially the intestinal, which contributes to some diseases such as constipation. Objective: To evaluate the use of probiotics in the improvement of intestinal constipation in female bodybuilders. Materials and Methods: Longitudinal, double blind study with placebo. A questionnaire was used to identify constipation using the ROMA III criteria, 24-hour recall for food intake and Bristol scale rating. Results: Statistical difference was found before and after supplementation in the number of bowel movements per week (p=0.026 and p=0.028, respectively). For the pre and post supplementation analysis, on the Bristol scale, for the group supplemented with probiotics (p=0.020). For intragroup analyzes, we found statistical differences for the pre-analysis on the intensity of abdominal pain or discomfort when evacuating (p=0.003). For post analysis on the intensity of abdominal pain or discomfort when evacuating (p=0.036). For analysis after abdominal bloating or distension (p=0.029). For Bristol pre and post scale analysis for the constipated group and supplemented with probiotics (p=0.021). Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that supplementation with probiotics for 4 weeks contributed to the modulation of the intestinal microbiota of constipated women practicing physical activity.