Dietary supplements improve constipation linked to Parkinson’s disease

Constipation affects a large proportion of people with Parkinson’s disease, often long before the onset of motor symptoms. This issue, which significantly impairs quality of life, may be linked to an imbalance in the gut microbiota and a reduction in short-chain fatty acids—beneficial substances naturally produced by the gut.

A recent study evaluated the effect of two types of dietary supplements on this symptom: a prebiotic called 2′-fucosyllactose and short-chain fatty acids. For six months, 72 patients received either one, the other, or a combination of both. The results show that the prebiotic alone significantly reduces the severity of constipation. However, it is the combination of both supplements that yields the best results. Participants observed an improvement in stool consistency, a reduction in the number of daily defecation attempts, and a better quality of life related to this issue.

Short-chain fatty acids are molecules produced by the fermentation of dietary fibers in the colon. They play a key role in gut health by strengthening the gut’s protective barrier and regulating inflammation. 2′-fucosyllactose, on the other hand, is a complex sugar that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, such as bifidobacteria, which are known to produce these fatty acids.

Contrary to what one might think, a decrease in bowel movement frequency does not always mean worsening constipation. In this study, patients on the combined treatment saw their daily bowel movements decrease from an average of two to one. This is because the stools became more complete and satisfying, reducing the need for repeated and unsuccessful attempts. Participants also reported a reduction in excessive straining and a more effective sensation of evacuation.

Quality of life improved for patients in all groups, although the benefits were more pronounced with the combined treatment. This demonstrates that even modest physical improvements can have a significant impact on daily well-being. The researchers emphasize that these findings could pave the way for new therapeutic approaches specifically targeting the gut microbiota to relieve digestive symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.

The participants’ physical activity did not change during the study, confirming that the observed improvements are indeed attributable to the supplements and not to other external factors. Reported side effects, such as mild digestive discomfort or bloating, remained minimal and did not compromise the continuation of treatment.

This approach could represent a safe alternative to laxatives, the prolonged use of which can lead to fluid imbalances, colonic ulcers, or intestinal inflammation. By directly targeting the underlying mechanisms of constipation, these supplements offer a promising solution to improve patient comfort without the adverse effects often associated with traditional treatments.

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Official Study Source

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40120-026-00972-6

Title: Prebiotics and SCFA Alleviate Parkinson’s-Related Constipation: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

Journal: Neurology and Therapy

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Authors: Tobias Hegelmaier; Alexander Duscha; Christiane Desel; Lisa-Marie Würtele; Jana Peplinski; Diana Jauk; Riccardo Troisi; Martin Klietz; Simon Faissner; Thomas Müller; Aiden Haghikia