Although research on the use of probiotics for IBS is complicated due to the difficulty of making comparisons of the many strains that are tested, for the most part, studies have shown a positive effect of probiotics on the variety of symptoms that make up IBS. Just as promising is the fact that most studies have not shown any negative effect on IBS symptoms from taking probiotics.
Taking a probiotic supplement, and thereby increasing the number of friendly bacteria within the large intestine, is thought to reduce the symptoms of IBS through some or all of the following effects:
- Eradicating small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- Reducing the number of unfriendly bacteria
- Strengthening the lining of the intestines
- Reducing reduce intestinal permeability (leaky gut)
- Normalizing motility
- Reducing visceral hypersensitivity
- Reducing pain through helpful effects on nerve receptors found in the intestinal lining
