Probiotics for Constipation: Can Probiotics Help?

The information in this article and throughout Trio Nutrition's blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. For questions about our products or orders, please contact Trio Nutrition. Written, read and reviewed by the Trio Nutrition team.

Probiotics for constipation have been tested in clinical trials, and the research is still developing. The NIDDK, part of the National Institutes of Health, reports that about 16 out of 100 adults have symptoms of constipation. Below, Trio Nutrition reviews the evidence, possible side effects and the basic habits NIDDK recommends.*

What is constipation, and how common is it?

NIDDK describes constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements a week. Stools may be hard, dry or lumpy, or difficult or painful to pass. About 16 out of 100 adults have symptoms of constipation. The figure rises to about 33 out of 100 adults ages 60 and older. NIDDK notes that women, especially during pregnancy or after giving birth, and older adults are more likely to become constipated.*

Bloating often comes with irregular bowel habits. For everyday tips, see the Trio Nutrition guide to everyday bloating relief and the overview of a gut health supplement for digestion.*

Do probiotics help with constipation?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when given in adequate amounts, provide a health benefit, according to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements (NIH ODS). NIH ODS lists improving intestinal transit among the ways probiotics may act. A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis appeared in the International Journal of Surgery. It pooled 17 randomized controlled trials with 1,469 adults who had a clinically defined bowel disorder in which constipation was the main symptom:

These results come from adults with a clinically defined bowel disorder. They may not apply to people with occasional constipation. NIH ODS states that effects depend on the strain, how long it is used and the symptom. To compare probiotic groups, read the Trio Nutrition guide to the big 3 types of probiotics and the guide to Lactobacillus probiotics for the gut.*

Can probiotics cause constipation?

NIH ODS states that probiotics are unlikely to cause harm in healthy people and that side effects are usually minor. Reported side effects consist of self-limited gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas. NIH ODS does not list constipation as a typical side effect.*

NIDDK lists other common causes of constipation that are worth checking first:

• Diet: not eating enough fiber.*
• Fluids: not drinking enough liquids, or dehydration.*
• Activity: not getting enough physical activity.*
• Medicines and supplements: iron supplements and antacids that contain aluminum and calcium, among others.*
• Routine changes: travel, aging, pregnancy or ignoring the urge to go.*

How do fiber, fluids and activity support regularity?

NIDDK states that adults should get 22 to 34 grams of fiber a day, depending on age and sex. Fiber sources include whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables and nuts. NIDDK advises drinking plenty of water and other liquids when adding fiber.*

NIDDK also notes that regular physical activity may help relieve symptoms. Trying to have a bowel movement 15 to 45 minutes after breakfast may help. NIDDK also advises using the bathroom as soon as you feel the need to go. Prebiotic fibers feed gut microbes. Learn more in the Trio Nutrition guide to prebiotics and gut health and the explainer on what a synbiotic means.*

How do you choose a probiotic supplement for regularity?

Check the label for these details:

• Named strains: genus, species and strain, since effects depend on the strain (NIH ODS).*
• Amount: the blend weight or CFU count per serving, and whether it applies at manufacture or expiration.*
• Serving: how many capsules per day and whether the capsule is delayed-release.*
• Other ingredients: anything added beyond probiotics, such as apple cider vinegar or enzymes.*
• Quality: where the product is made and whether it is lab tested.

For a broader comparison, see the Trio Nutrition guide to a probiotic supplement for digestive health. Men can read about probiotics for men, and the immune support supplement guide covers how gut health connects to daily wellness. Readers who want a reset after a heavy meal can see the guide to a gut cleanse.*

Apple Cider Vinegar + Probiotics: what is in each serving?

Trio Nutrition's Apple Cider Vinegar + Probiotics comes in delayed-release vegetarian capsules. A two-capsule serving supplies apple cider vinegar powder 500 mg and a proprietary probiotic blend of 3.8 mg with L. acidophilus La-14, L. plantarum and L. casei IDCC 3451.* It also contains N-acetyl-L-carnitine HCl 5 mg, citrus bioflavonoids 5 mg, honey powder 5 mg, lipase 2.4 mg and organic cayenne pepper 2 mg. A bottle holds 60 capsules, a 30-day supply, and the formula has no major food allergens. It is backed by a 60-day full-refund guarantee — no return required^*. Learn more about apple cider vinegar capsules and ACV with the Mother, or browse gut and digestive health supplements.

Why Customers Choose Trio Nutrition

• Apple Cider Vinegar + Probiotics combines apple cider vinegar powder with a three-strain probiotic blend.*
• Manufactured in the USA in an FDA-registered, GMP-certified facility, and lab tested.
• Vegetarian capsules with no major food allergens.
• Backed by a 60-day full-refund guarantee — no return required*.
• Free U.S. shipping and Subscribe & Save.

The bottom line on probiotics for constipation

Probiotics for constipation may help some adults, and one review of 17 trials in adults with a clinically defined bowel disorder found more frequent, softer stools with probiotics. Results depend on the strain, and researchers say larger trials are needed.* Start with the NIDDK basics of fiber, fluids and activity, check your medicines and supplements, and talk with your healthcare provider if symptoms last or warning signs appear.

Frequently asked questions

Do probiotic supplements help with constipation?

Some research suggests probiotics may help. A 2020 review of 17 randomized controlled trials in 1,469 adults with a clinically defined bowel disorder marked by constipation found that probiotics increased stool frequency by about 1.29 bowel movements per week compared with placebo or no treatment. The same review reported softer stool consistency and a gut transit time about 12 hours shorter. The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements adds that effects depend on the strain, how long it is used and the symptom.*

Can probiotics cause constipation?

The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements (NIH ODS) describes probiotic side effects as usually minor, self-limited gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas. NIH ODS does not list constipation as a typical side effect. NIDDK lists other common causes of constipation, including low fiber intake, not drinking enough liquids, iron supplements and antacids that contain aluminum and calcium. Anyone who notices a lasting change in bowel habits after starting a supplement should talk with a healthcare provider.*

How many bowel movements a week is considered constipation?

NIDDK, part of the NIH, describes constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements a week. Stools may also be hard, dry or lumpy, or difficult or painful to pass. NIDDK reports that about 16 out of 100 adults (16%) have symptoms of constipation. The figure rises to about 33 out of 100 adults (33%) ages 60 and older.*

Which probiotic strains are studied for constipation relief?

Trials of probiotics for constipation have tested many different strains. The 2020 review of 17 randomized controlled trials concluded that larger studies are needed to identify the most effective strains, doses and durations. NIH ODS states that a probiotic's effects depend on the strain, how long it is used and the symptom. Trio Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar + Probiotics lists L. acidophilus La-14, L. plantarum and L. casei IDCC 3451 in a 3.8 mg blend per two-capsule serving.*

How much fiber do adults need for regularity?

NIDDK, part of the NIH, states that adults should get 22 to 34 grams of fiber a day, depending on age and sex. NIDDK lists whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables and nuts as fiber sources. People who eat more fiber or take a fiber supplement should drink plenty of water and other liquids, according to NIDDK. Regular physical activity may also help relieve symptoms.*

When should a healthcare provider be seen about constipation?

NIDDK, part of the NIH, advises seeing a doctor if constipation continues despite self-care. NIDDK lists signs that need care right away, including bleeding from the rectum, blood in the stool, constant abdominal pain, inability to pass gas, vomiting, fever, lower back pain and losing weight without trying. The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements notes that probiotics may cause harm in people who are severely ill or immunocompromised.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

All Trio Nutrition products are Manufactured in the USA and lab tested in FDA-registered facilities.

Important Notice: Always consult your healthcare provider prior to taking any nutritional supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, have a medical condition, or are planning any medical procedure. Discontinue use and consult your doctor if any adverse reactions occur. Keep out of reach of children.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Individual results may vary.

Sources & Further Reading

• NIDDK, National Institutes of Health. Definition & Facts for Constipation. Last reviewed May 2018.
• NIDDK, National Institutes of Health. Symptoms & Causes of Constipation. Last reviewed May 2018.
• NIDDK, National Institutes of Health. Treatment for Constipation. Last reviewed May 2018.
• NIDDK, National Institutes of Health. Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Constipation. Last reviewed May 2018.
• National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Probiotics — Health Professional Fact Sheet. Updated March 25, 2025.
• Wen Y, Li J, Long Q, Yue CC, He B, Tang XG. Systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials. International Journal of Surgery, 2020;79:111–119.

— The Trio Nutrition Team