Evidence supporting the use of: Galactooligosaccharides
For the health condition: Constipation (children)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are prebiotic fibers that have been scientifically studied for their effects on bowel function, particularly in children with constipation. Multiple randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that GOS supplementation improves stool frequency and consistency in constipated children. The proposed mechanism is that GOS selectively stimulates the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as bifidobacteria, which ferment the oligosaccharides and produce short-chain fatty acids. These metabolites can increase water content in the colon and stimulate peristalsis, both of which help alleviate constipation. A 2017 meta-analysis in Pediatrics evaluated the effects of prebiotics, including GOS, in children with functional constipation and found that GOS supplementation significantly increased stool frequency compared to placebo. Several individual studies cited in this review reported similar findings, with improvements seen in both stool frequency and consistency after 2–4 weeks of GOS supplementation, with few adverse effects. The European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) notes that while more research is needed, current evidence supports the potential benefit of GOS as part of a dietary intervention for childhood constipation. Overall, the evidence base is moderate to strong, with multiple clinical trials supporting efficacy, though some heterogeneity exists in formulations and dosing. Therefore, the use of GOS for childhood constipation is primarily scientifically justified.

More about galactooligosaccharides
More about Constipation (children)

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apricot
arabinoxylan
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Asam gelugor
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atractylodes
atractylone
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bacillus coagulans
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bee products
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bishop\'s weed
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black seed
blackberry
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blueberry
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borassus palm
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butternut
bасора
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carrot
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cowage seed
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currant
curry leaf
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date
dianthrone
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fig
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fructan
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galactomannan
galactooligosaccharides
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inulin
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jujube
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Products containing galactooligosaccharides

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