Multistrain Probiotic for Functional Constipation

Subjects will be screened and will enter a placebo-only 2-week run-in period during which constipation symptoms will be evaluated and any disallowed products (e.g. probiotics) must be discontinued. Following successful completion of the run-in period, subjects will be randomized to probiotic (high or low-dose groups) or placebo. Subjects will then consume their assigned product daily for 6 weeks. Subjects will undergo abdominal x-rays on study days 0 and 42 to assess transit time with each examination preceded by 6 days of radiopaque Sitz marker ingestion. Subject diaries will be used to collect bowel movement frequency, stool consistency, concomitant medications, and adverse events each day during the trial. Stool samples will be collected at baseline and end of study to assess fecal probiotic count. PAC-QOL, WCS, and GSRS questionnaires will be administered at baseline and day 42. 24-hour food recalls will be administered at day 0 and 42 and the following parameters will be assessed: total calories, carbohydrate, fat, protein, fiber, and liquid intake. Weekly physical activity recalls will be completed.