From the Research
The most recent and highest quality study suggests that supplementation of Clostridium butyricum after colonoscopy can lead to a quicker recovery and stabilization of gut microbiota and fecal short-chain fatty acids on the third day 1.
Key Findings
- The gut microbiota and fecal short-chain fatty acids of healthy subjects were recovered on the 7th day after colonoscopy 1.
- Supplementation of Clostridium butyricum after colonoscopy resulted in a quicker recovery and stabilization of gut microbiota and fecal SCFAs on the third day 1.
- The bowel preparation process typically reduces microbial diversity and abundance, with certain bacterial groups like Firmicutes and Clostridiales decreasing while others such as Proteobacteria may increase 2, 3.
Factors Affecting Recovery
- The specific bowel preparation used, such as polyethylene glycol-based preparations, may be less disruptive than sodium phosphate 2, 3.
- Antibiotic use during the procedure and diet following colonoscopy can also affect recovery 4.
- Individual patient factors, such as preexisting gastrointestinal symptoms, may also play a role in recovery 5, 4.
Clinical Significance
- The clinical significance of these changes remains under investigation, but patients with certain conditions like inflammatory bowel disease may experience more pronounced or prolonged disruptions 5, 4.
- For patients concerned about microbiome effects, maintaining a fiber-rich diet after colonoscopy and considering probiotic supplementation may support faster recovery, though evidence for specific interventions remains limited 1, 4.