By Jimmy Downs

Sunday Jan 13, 2013 (foodconsumer.org) -- Taking probiotic supplements may help treat constipation in people with Parkinson's disease, a study in Minerva Gastroenterologica and Dietologica suggests.

E. Cassani  from Parkinson Institute, Istituti Clinici di Perfezionamento in Milan, Italy and colleagues found patients with Parkinson's disease who suffered constipation significantly normalized stools by taking 65 ml fermented milk drink containing 6.5x109 CFU of Lactobacilus casei Shirota daily for five weeks.

Constipation is common in patients with Parkinson's disease, which is generally treated with a special diet full of soluble fiber supplements and macrogol laxatives, the authors say.

Lactobacillus casei Shirota has been tested in two previous trials for their effects on gastrointestinal symptoms in patients suffering chronic constipation, according to the report.

In the study, forty Parkinson's patients suffering from constipation were treated with dietary therapy for the first week and then were treated by taking 65 mL fermented milk drink with 6.5x109 CFU of Lactobacilus casei Shirota every day for five weeks.

Parkinson's disease patients during taking probiotics significantly improved stool consistency, reduced episodes of bloating, abdominal pain, and sensation of incomplete emptying.

The researchers concluded "This pilot study showed that a regular intake of probiotics can significantly improve stool consistency and bowel habits in Parkinson's disease patients."