Efficacy of a Probiotic Blend to Reduce Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a recurrent, functional disorder characterized by abdominal pain and discomfort, changes in bowel habits and gastrointestinal symptoms such as distension and sensation of abdominal inflammation, incomplete evacuation, urgency and tenesmus. This disorder affects men and women of all age groups, with a worldwide prevalence of 10% to 20%. In addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, patients with IBS often experience a wide range of other problems, such as non-abdominal pain, psychological symptoms, poor quality of life, and difficulties in carrying out activities of daily living. Treatment is usually symptomatic and associated with changes in lifestyle and diet, drug and psychological treatments and the use of probiotics. Studies carried out with probiotics have shown that their administration can be effective in the prevention and treatment of IBS. Furthermore, certain compositions of specific probiotics are found to have benefits, especially in quality of life, bloating and abdominal pain. The hypothesis is that the use of a probiotic blend can reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and improve quality of life through its immunomodulatory and intestinal regulation mechanisms in patients with IBS aim: To develop a safe and effective probiotic product (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium bifidum e Lactobacillus rhamnosus) to reduce the symptoms caused by IBS. METHODS Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effectiveness of a probiotic blend (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium bifidum e Lactobacillus rhamnosus) in improving symptoms caused by Bowel Syndrome Irritable (IBS). Study will be conducted with patients diagnosed with IBS by the gastroenterologist participating in the study, being an adult audience (18 - 65 years old). In the present study, 114 volunteers of both sexes will be included, randomly distributed into two groups: Test group (n=57): Volunteers supplemented with the probiotic product (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium bifidum e Lactobacillus rhamnosus - Final concentration: 1 x 1010 CFU/day). Placebo Group (n=57): Volunteers supplemented with placebo. The study will last for 90 days. During the trial period, participants must attend the Research Center for the following visits: Visit 1 (day 0) - Evaluation of inclusion and exclusion criteria, clinical and physical evaluation, presentation of the research and signing of the Free and Informed Consent Form in writing, partial delivery of the test product or placebo, delivery and application of questionnaires (questionnaires quality of life (by the SF-36 scale); Bristol scale, Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) questionnaire for gastrointestinal evaluation and mental health questionnaire (BDI and IDATE questionnaire). The questionnaires will be applied preferably in person by the researchers involved (with scheduled time) in interview format or online via Google Forms form, providing confidentiality to all information collected. In addition, the first visit also An explanation will be given regarding the importance of the questionnaires, correct completion, and possible changes in the TGI in the first days of using the probiotic. Visit 2 (day 45) - Clinical consultation with a specialist physician, final delivery of the test product or placebo, and application of questionnaires. Visit 3 (day 90) - Clinical consultation with a specialist physician and final application of questionnaires. Closure of the study.