A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 103 subjects investigated the efficacy and mechanism of action of Bifidobacterium bifidum in the relief of chronic constipation. The treatment consisted of a daily supplementation of 2×10(9) CFU of dried Bifidobacterium bifidum CCFM16 for 28 days. The results showed a modulation of the intestinal microbiota, notably by increasing the levels of B. bifidum and improving the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. It also significantly increased stool consistency (BSFS), the proportion of SBM responders (spontaneous stools per week). Furthermore, the analysis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) showed an increase in the concentration of acetic and butyric acids. CCFM16 could be safe and effective in the management of chronic constipation.

Wang L, Tian P, Wang B, Cui S, Zhao J, Zhang H, Qian L, Wang Q, Chen W, Wang G. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Bifidobacterium bifidum CCFM16 for manipulation of the gut microbiota and relief from chronic constipation. Food Funct. 2022 jan 26. doi: 10.1039/d1ffo03896f.