Probiotics are not laxatives and their purpose is not to stimulate a bowel movement, but they can be helpful to people suffering from constipation. Research shows that certain probiotic strains can help improve symptoms of constipation, particularly by supporting regular bowel movements and enhancing gut motility. Strains such as Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus casei have been studied for their ability to soften stools and increase stool frequency, especially in individuals with chronic constipation or IBS-C. While results can vary by strain and individual, incorporating clinically-studied probiotics may be a helpful, natural approach to promoting digestive regularity.
One might think these days, nothing is taboo. Strangely though, one subject that concerns us all rarely makes it into the conversation: poop.
Recently at a dinner in Manhattan, I noticed that my neighbor on the right was only pretending to eat. She whispered into my ear that her gut felt like concrete, and she was in quite a lot of pain. It turned out she had not had a bowel movement in two days, and her constipation was causing severe discomfort and anxiety.
As we whispered more, other guests joined in with their experiences on digestion. Interestingly, no one had a clear idea of what “good digestion” and “good poop” actually looked like.
Most people don’t think much about their poop—and even fewer talk about it. To many, poop is just a waste product. But in reality, poop can tell us a whole lot about our health.
Our intestines contain 400–600 strains of beneficial bacteria, each performing critical functions. This collection of good bacteria is called the gut microbiome. An imbalance in this microbiome can lead to digestive discomfort, including irregularities in bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea.
A high-quality probiotic supplement can help keep your bowel movements regular and support your overall gut health, reducing the discomfort associated with digestive irregularities.
Common Causes for Constipation
Constipation can stem from a variety of lifestyle, dietary, and physiological factors—often working together to disrupt your natural digestive rhythm. One of the most common causes is a low-fiber diet, which can slow down the movement of stool through the colon. Inadequate hydration can also make stools harder and more difficult to pass.
Other contributing factors include lack of physical activity, changes in routine (like travel or stress), and certain medications—including pain relievers, antacids, and iron supplements. For many people, gut dysbiosis—an imbalance in the gut microbiome—can also play a key role in persistent or chronic constipation.
In fact, our gut relies on ample amounts of beneficial bacteria to support healthy elimination. These microbes help produce mucus that lubricates the intestinal lining, keep the gut barrier intact, and assist in breaking down food efficiently—all essential for smooth, regular digestion. When the balance of good bacteria is disrupted, these critical processes can slow down, contributing to sluggish bowels and discomfort.
Probiotic Supplements and Constipation
Constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. That is a big difference to the “healthy” gold standard of having 1-2 bowel movements per day for optimal elimination and detoxification. For some, sufficient fiber and fluid intake may be enough to help regulate bowel function, whereas others may need a little more support.
Many researchers have studied the use of probiotics for constipation. Their conclusion: Probiotic supplements can be extremely helpful. Probiotics help rebalance the gut flora and improve mucus production in the intestines, which can improve the frequency and consistency of bowel movements.
Omni-Biotic Balance is a multi-species probiotic that can help with constipation. The probiotic strains in Omni-Biotic Balance are known to optimize digestion and rebalance the gut flora.
Constipation During Pregnancy
An estimated 40% of pregnant women suffer from constipation toward the end of their pregnancy due to hormonal, physical, and lifestyle changes.
Research shows that probiotics can help regulate digestion.In one study, only 2.4% of women who took Omni-Biotic Panda, a synbiotic (a mix of prebiotic and probiotic), during pregnancy suffered from constipation—a 94% reduction compared to baseline.
Constipation in Children
Constipation in children may be caused by too little fiber, dehydration, stress, food allergies, or underlying medical conditions.
Medical causes should be ruled out by a healthcare provider. Once cleared, increasing fiber and fluid intake may help. Additionally, a high-quality probiotic supplement can regulate digestion. Some probiotic strains also enhance mucus production in the intestines, helping food pass through more smoothly.
While on Certain Medications
Many medications negatively impact the gut flora. Antibiotics, radiation, and opioids can disturb the microbiome, leading to constipation or inflammation.
In these cases, probiotics help restore gut flora, support healthy digestion, and reduce side effects from medications.
Probiotics and Diarrhea
Two common causes of diarrhea are:
- Traveler’s diarrhe
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhe
Travel exposes you to foreign pathogens, and your body may respond with diarrhea to expel them quickly.
Antibiotics kill both bad and good bacteria, allowing pathogens to thrive in your gut. A high-quality probiotic helps restore gut microbiome diversity and may even fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.
For example, Omni-Biotic AB10 has been shown in clinical studies to reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile infections.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a digestive disorder with symptoms like pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Many physicians recommend probiotics for managing IBS.
One literature review of 43 RCTs concluded that “probiotics are effective treatments for IBS symptoms.” Another review of 15 trials found probiotics reduced pain and symptom severity.
For IBS-related diarrhea, Omni-Biotic Stress Release has shown to reduce symptom severity, improve gut barrier function, and increase bacterial diversity.
Choosing the Right Probiotic
When selecting a probiotic supplement, look for:
- Multispecies and multistrain formula
- Clinically tested products (with studies on the final formula
- Free from allergens (no gluten, dairy, soy, or yeast)
Harnessing the Power of Papaya for Additional Digestive Support
Papaya is a tropical fruit known not just for its digestive enzyme papain, but also for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These natural compounds can help soothe the gut lining and support overall digestive health. Caricol is made from organic, tree-ripened papayas using a special process that concentrates their natural benefits. This plant-based product has been clinically studied and can help ease bloating, support regular bowel movements, and promote digestive comfort. Caricol® is an easy, gentle way to help your gut feel better—especially when digestion slows down or feels off track.
Additional Benefits of Probiotics
In summary, probiotics are powerful allies for gut health. Whether you’re dealing with constipation or diarrhea, a high-quality probiotic supplement can support digestive balance.
However, they’re not a magic fix. Be sure to also:
- Eat plenty of fiber (grains, legumes, leafy greens
- Drink adequate water dail
- Maintain a balanced die
If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider to explore deeper issues.
