Constipation and Stress—Solved in One Capsule?

Gut health is finally having its moment—and for good reason.

We’re learning more each day about how your gut microbiome isn’t just about digestion. It plays a role in everything from immune strength… to inflammation… to even your mental health.

And now, a new clinical study suggests that the right probiotic blend could offer relief for two common struggles among older adults…

The blend—marketed as Innerim by Kaneka Probiotics and AB-Biotics—was tested in a gold-standard, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of adults ages 50 to 80.

Participants were struggling with constipation and rated their perceived stress levels throughout the trial.

After just 6 weeks, the probiotic group saw:

• An increase of two additional bowel movements per week
• Significant improvement in stool consistency
• Lower rates of stress, as measured by a standardized mental health scale (Perceived Stress Scale)

By the end of the 84-day study, participants taking Innerim had fewer cases of constipation and reported significantly improved emotional well-being.

What’s behind the results?

The probiotic uses two specific strains of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum—KABP 031 and KABP 032—chosen for their ability to support healthy digestion and microbial balance in older adults.

According to earlier studies, the same blend may also improve nutrient absorption and boost immune responses to vaccines.

Sounds great, right?

Yes—but as always, there’s a caveat.

The sample size was small (just 70 people), and the study was partially sponsored by the company that sells the supplement.

That doesn’t negate the findings—but it means we need independent follow-ups to confirm these results.

Also worth noting: All participants also took a multivitamin, which may have affected stress outcomes. And while the digestive improvements were meaningful, this isn’t a replacement for dietary fiber, hydration, or movement—all still essential for gut motility.

Still, the connection between the gut and the brain—the “gut-brain axis”—is one of the most exciting frontiers in aging research. And this probiotic could be one small step toward targeted, age-specific microbiome care.

If you’re over 50 and struggling with gut troubles or stress, probiotic support may be worth exploring—with your doctor’s guidance. Just don’t ditch your other healthy habits.

This is promising. But it’s early. We’ll keep watching the science—and keep you posted as more results roll in.

Because when it comes to your gut, small shifts can make a big difference.

For your gut, your brain, and everything in between,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. Can a probiotic really help those with rheumatoid arthritis? Find out here.

Sources:

Probiotic Blend May Improve Constipation and Mental Well-Being in Older Adults: Study. (2025, July 17). Nutraceuticals World. https://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/breaking-news/probiotic-blend-may-improve-constipation-and-mental-well-being-in-older-adults-study/