Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects a significant portion of the population worldwide. The complex etiology of IBS involves disturbances in the gut microbiota, which play a crucial role in maintaining gut health and function. Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts, have shown promise in modulating gut microbiota composition and improving digestive health in individuals with IBS. This thesis aims to investigate the role of probiotics in modulating gut microbiota and improving digestive health in individuals with IBS. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, highlighting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definitions of key terms. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review that discusses the existing research on probiotics, gut microbiota, IBS, and the mechanisms through which probiotics may exert their beneficial effects on digestive health in individuals with IBS. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology employed in this study, including details on the study design, participant recruitment, probiotic intervention, data collection methods, and statistical analysis procedures. Various aspects of the research methodology such as sample size determination, randomization, blinding, and outcome measures are thoroughly described. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, discussing the impact of probiotic supplementation on gut microbiota composition, digestive symptoms, and overall quality of life in individuals with IBS. The results are analyzed and interpreted in the context of existing literature, highlighting the potential of probiotics as a therapeutic intervention for IBS. In Chapter Five, the conclusions drawn from the study are summarized, emphasizing the role of probiotics in modulating gut microbiota and improving digestive health in individuals with IBS. The implications of the findings for clinical practice and future research directions are discussed, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals and researchers in the field of human nutrition and dietetics. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of probiotics as a promising approach for managing IBS and enhancing gastrointestinal health. By elucidating the mechanisms through which probiotics exert their effects on gut microbiota and digestive function, this research advances our understanding of the potential therapeutic benefits of probiotic interventions in individuals with IBS.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "The Role of Probiotics in Modulating Gut Microbiota and Improving Digestive Health in Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)" aims to investigate the potential benefits of probiotics in managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) by modulating the gut microbiota. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. The etiology of IBS is complex and involves various factors, including alterations in gut microbiota composition and function. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. They have been studied for their potential role in modulating the gut microbiota, improving gut barrier function, and reducing inflammation, all of which are relevant to the pathophysiology of IBS. By exploring the mechanisms through which probiotics exert their effects on the gut microbiota and digestive health, this research aims to provide valuable insights into the potential use of probiotics as a therapeutic intervention for individuals with IBS. The research will involve a comprehensive literature review to examine existing evidence on the role of probiotics in managing IBS and modulating gut microbiota. Various aspects of probiotics, including their mechanisms of action, strains used, dosage, and duration of treatment, will be explored to gain a deeper understanding of their potential benefits in individuals with IBS. Additionally, the research will include a detailed analysis of the gut microbiota composition in individuals with IBS compared to healthy individuals to identify potential dysbiosis and microbial targets for probiotic interventions. The methodology will involve both in vitro and in vivo studies to assess the impact of probiotics on gut microbiota composition, gut barrier function, and inflammatory markers in individuals with IBS. Clinical trials will also be conducted to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in improving symptoms and quality of life in individuals with IBS. The findings of this research will contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of probiotics as a safe and effective adjuvant therapy for individuals with IBS. Overall, this research project aims to advance our understanding of the role of probiotics in modulating gut microbiota and improving digestive health in individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. By elucidating the mechanisms through which probiotics exert their beneficial effects, this research has the potential to inform clinical practice and improve the management of individuals with IBS."