Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Ficus carica paste for the management of functional constipation

Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2016;25(3):487-96. doi: 10.6133/apjcn.092015.06.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Constipation affects up to 20% of the world's population. The aim of this study was to investigate whether supplementation with Ficus carica paste could be used to treat constipation in Korean subjects with functional constipation.

Methods and study design: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Subjects with functional constipation were orally supplemented with either F. carica paste (n=40) or placebo (n=40) for 8 weeks. We measured the efficacy and safety of F. carica paste. Primary outcomes (colon transit time) and secondary outcomes (questionnaire related to defecation) were compared before and after the 8-week intervention period.

Results: F. carica paste supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in colon transit time and a significant improvement in stool type and abdominal discomfort compared with the placebo. Blood parameters and clinical findings for organ toxicity remained within normal ranges.

Conclusion: These results suggest that F. carica paste may have beneficial effects in subjects suffering from constipation.

背景和目的:便秘影响到世界人口的20%。这项研究目的是探讨无花果酱是 否可以用于韩国功能性便秘患者的治疗。方法与研究设计:我们进行了一项 随机、双盲与安慰剂对照试验。功能性便秘患者摄入无花果酱(n=40)或安 慰剂(n=40)8 周。测定无花果酱的疗效和安全性并且比较8 周前后干预的主 要疗效(结肠转运时间)和次要疗效(涉及到排便的调查问卷)。结果:与 安慰剂组比较,无花果酱能显著减少结肠转运时间,改善粪便类型和腹部不 适。血液和器官毒性的临床参数均保持在正常范围以内。结论:这些结果表 明无花果酱可能对便秘患者产生有益的影响。.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Constipation / drug therapy*
  • Diet
  • Dietary Fiber / administration & dosage
  • Dietary Fiber / analysis
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Ficus* / chemistry
  • Flavonoids / administration & dosage
  • Flavonoids / analysis
  • Fruit / chemistry*
  • Gastrointestinal Transit
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Phytotherapy*
  • Placebos
  • Republic of Korea

Substances

  • Dietary Fiber
  • Flavonoids
  • Placebos