VSL#3 Probiotic Shown Effective in Dietary Management of Children With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

GAITHERSBURG, Md., Aug. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — New data
show that VSL#3, a high-potency probiotic medical food, provides
effective dietary management of children affected with irritable
bowel syndrome (IBS).  

Until recently, little has been done to understand the role of
probiotics in the dietary management of children with IBS.
 Now, data is available showing VSL#3 as an option for
children suffering from this disorder.  These data were
published in the July issue of the Journal of Pediatric
Gastroenterology and Nutrition.  

“There is evidence that some probiotics, such as VSL#3, have a
beneficial role in the dietary management of children and teenagers
suffering with IBS,” said Stefano Guandalini, MD, Professor and
Chief of the Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and
Nutrition at the University of Chicago.  “This has the
potential to make a real difference for kids who suffer from pain,
bloating and discomfort of IBS.”

This investigation was a randomized, double-blind,
placebo-controlled, crossover trial conducted in five pediatric
tertiary care centers.  Patients eligible for enrollment were
male and female children in the age range of 4 to 18 years, with an
IBS diagnosis.  A total of 59 children completed the study.
 Although placebo was beneficial in some of the parameters and
in as many as half of the patients, VSL#3 was significantly
superior to placebo in reaching the primary (relief of symptoms)
and most secondary endpoints (abdominal pain/discomfort, abdominal
bloating/gassiness and family assessment of life disruption).

About Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common problem in pediatrics, for which no cure is
available.  This disorder is characterized most commonly by
cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.
 IBS causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it
does not permanently harm the i

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