Clinical trial: the effects of a trans‐galactooligosaccharide prebiotic on faecal microbiota and symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome

Summary Background Gut microflora‐mucosal interactions may be involved in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Aim To investigate the efficacy of a novel prebiotic trans‐galactooligosaccharide in changing the colonic microflora and improve the symptoms in IBS sufferers. Methods In all, 44 patients with Rome II positive IBS completed a 12‐week single centre parallel crossover controlled clinical trial. Patients were randomized to receive either 3.5 g/d prebiotic, 7 g/d prebiotic or 7 g/d placebo. IBS symptoms were monitored weekly and scored according to a 7‐point Likert scale. Changes in faecal microflora, stool frequency and form (Bristol stool scale) subjective global assessment (SGA), anxiety and depression and QOL scores were also monitored. Results The prebiotic significantly enhanced faecal bifidobacteria (3.5 g/d P