Impact of probiotics on cognition and constipation in the elderly: A meta-analysis

Cognitive decline and constipation are common complications in the elderly. Probiotics potential therapeutic agents to ameliorate cognitive impairment through gut-brain axis. Several clinical studies have investigated beneficial effects of probiotics on However, a quantitative meta-analysis is required evaluate efficacy function constipation. Thirteen were included this meta-analysis. We examined risk bias assessment heterogeneity eight for cognition five constipation, followed by group subgroup meta-analyses using random-effects model probiotic supplements aged people. The results pooled revealed that supplementation did not improve rating scale all (estimate = 0.13; 95%CI [-0.18, 0.43]; p 0.41; I2 83.51%). analysis single strain showed improved elderly people 0.35; [0.02, 0.69]; 0.039; 19.19%) compared multiple strains. also enhanced defecation frequency constipated patients 0.27; [0.05, 0.5]; 0.019; 67.37%). Furthermore, resulted higher fecal Lactobacillus counts than placebo 0.37; 0.026; 21.3%). Subgroup indicated intervention period ≥4 weeks was more effective [0.01, 0.68]; 0.044; 0%) reducing symptoms short duration. Based these results, could be reduce population. between high, limited trials available individuals probiotics. Therefore, further determine effect cognition.