TITLE:
Efficacy of InferrinTM and Lactoferrin on Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Otherwise Healthy Adults: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
AUTHORS:
David Briskey, Amanda Rao
KEYWORDS:
Inferrin, Lactoferrin, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
JOURNAL NAME:
Food and Nutrition Sciences,
Vol.14 No.2,
February
17,
2023
ABSTRACT: Background: Irritable bowel syndrome affects one in five Australians, with abdominal
pain as one of the main symptoms. Lactoferrin, found in milk, is known for its
anti-inflammatory properties, and the development of a novel microencapsulated
form, InferrinTM, may be useful in the treatment of irritable bowel
syndrome symptoms. The current study aimed to study the effectiveness of
InferrinTM compared to lactoferrin and a placebo on irritable bowel
syndrome symptoms. Methods: Sixty-eight male and female participants
over 18 years of age were recruited to complete 8 weeks of supplementation with
either InferrinTM, lactoferrin, or a matched placebo. Outcomes were
measured at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Results: There was a decrease
from baseline across all groups in IBS symptom severity at weeks 4 and 8, as
well as improvements in QOL scores. Lactoferrin and InferrinTM groups had a significant reduction from baseline to week 8 in weekly stool
frequency. Conclusions: Overall, lactoferrin and InferrinTM appeared to have an effect in decreasing symptoms of IBS and weekly stool
frequency.