Activia points out how probiotics can be found in a growing number of dairy products worldwide. Classified as a symbiotic food product, Activia yogurt contains both prebiotics and probiotics, according to a 2008 controlled trial published in Acta Gastroenterologica Latinoamericana. Out of more than 300 women between the ages of 18 and 55 (some diagnosed with functional constipation and others not), those with functional constipation who consumed Activia twice daily for two weeks experienced increases in bowel movement frequency, improvements in stool quality, and reductions in pain and strain. The study team concluded that consumption of symbiotic food items may be effective in managing constipation.
But do other experts feel the same way? According to a University of Michigan Health FAQ, when asked if Activia can alleviate constipation symptoms as they claim in their advertising, experts responded by saying that the products can indeed benefit patients with mild constipation.