Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of ficus carica paste for the management of functional constipation / Hyang-Im Baek, Ki-Chan Ha, Hye-Mi Kim, Eun-Kyung Choi, Eun-Ock Park, Byung-Hyun Park, Hye Jeong Yang, Min Jung Kim, Hee Joo Kang, Soo-Wan Chae

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 caric'a 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.

Nutrition