Brought to you by Atlantia Clinical Trials. 

It’s a pretty damn uncomfortable problem.

Almost one in seven Irish adults suffer from constipation.

Now a local research team is offering Cork sufferers the chance to try a new fibre supplement that may be the key to relieving constipation symptoms – and they’ll even pay you to give it a go.

Atlantia Clinical Trials is recruiting adults aged 18-75 suffering from mild, moderate and severe constipation to join one of two research studies that are investigating the effectiveness of dietary fibre supplements in relieving constipation and its associated symptoms of pain and discomfort.

Those selected to take part could benefit by getting relief for their symptoms and will also be reimbursed €450 for their time.

Based in Blackpool, Atlantia Clinical Trials enrols thousands of participants every year for human health studies that focus on finding natural preventions and treatments for illness and disease.

“Constipation can be a difficult gastrointestinal problem to deal with,” they told us.

“It can affect people of all ages, but prevalence often increases after 60 years of age. It can reduce people’s energy, disrupt their daily lives, and affect their self-image and mental well-being.

“People that suffer from constipation generally need more medical visits, which can also be a financial burden.”

Recent research indicates that the consumption of a dietary fibre will increase the weekly frequency of bowel movements.

This soluble fibre is digested and fermented by gut bacteria, contributing to a healthier gut and in turn improving stool consistency. Recent studies also show that the fibre has prebiotic effects, which means promoting the growth of beneficial microbes in the gut and decreasing the bad bacteria, which may help people suffering from constipation.

What does the study involve?

During the two/three month period, participants will take a daily high-density fibre supplement and fill out a daily e-Diary with any constipation symptoms. The studies involve between three and five onsite visits at the Atlantia office in Blackpool, during which participants will undergo some general health and constipation-related questionnaires.

Once the study is complete, participants will receive €450 for their time.

How do I apply?

For more information or to apply to take part in their research, visit atlantiaclinicaltrials.com.