Efficacy of Dietary Interventions and Probiotic Use in the Management of Gastrointestinal Disorders in Older Adult

Background: Older adults experience physiological changes and alterations in the gut microbiota that can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. These changes, alongside the high prevalence of digestive disorders in this population, underscore the need for targeted interventions to improve well-being. Dietary modifications and probiotic supplementation have emerged as promising strategies for managing these symptoms; however, further research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness in this age group. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted in databases such as PubMed and the Cochrane Library, focusing on studies published in the last 20 years. Studies examining the relationship between dietary changes, probiotic use, and gastrointestinal disorders in older adults were included. Data analysis was performed using a qualitative and descriptive approach, integrating and evaluating information from the selected studies. Statistical analysis was deemed unnecessary due to the heterogeneity of the studies or the nature of the results, with a focus on evaluating and integrating the available evidence. Results: Probiotics such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium, and mixtures like VSL#3 were shown to reduce intestinal inflammation, improve gut microbiota, and relieve gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation, in older adults. In some studies, probiotics were found to be comparable to standard medications like mesalazine in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Conclusion: Probiotic use and dietary interventions are promising approaches for improving gastrointestinal disorders in older adults. These interventions not only enhance gut health but could also reduce polypharmacy and improve quality of life. Nevertheless, despite encouraging findings, further well-designed studies are required to better understand the mechanisms involved and to determine the most effective strategies for sustainably enhancing gastrointestinal health in older adults.