Effect of the consumption of a cheese enriched with probiotic organisms (Bifidobacterium lactis bi-07) in improving symptoms of constipation.

CONTEXT Constipation is a very common symptom in the general population. One way of non-pharmacological treatment of constipation is through the addition of probiotics to food. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate de effect of the consumption of a fresh cheese, enriched with Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 on the symptoms of constipated women. METHODS A randomized controlled trial, carried out in the Basic Health Units of Guaporé's City - RS/Brazil, between January and May 2012, with 30 constipated women. The patients were randomized into two groups whom received, for 30 days, 30 g of fresh cheese enriched with Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 (n = 15) or regular fresh cheese (n = 15). Constipation symptoms were evaluated according to ROMA III Consensus, before and after the nutritional intervention. Also, data of clinical and anthropometric characteristics of the individuals were collected. Accepted level of significance 5% (P≤0,05). RESULTS The medium age of the studied population was 37,5±14,4 years in the intervention group and 40,8±12,8 years in the control group. After 30 days we observed that the ingestion of fresh cheese enriched with Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 promoted benefic effects on the symptoms of strength to evacuate. CONCLUSION The consumption of 30g/day of a fresh cheese enriched with Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 has beneficial effects on constipation symptoms.