Specific Aims:~Aim # 1: Determine the efficacy of VSL #3 on IBS symptoms in GW veterans.~Hypothesis: Treatment with VSL #3 compared to placebo will improve global and individual symptoms of IBS~Aim #2 Determine the efficacy VSL #3 in reducing non-intestinal symptoms of IBS (fatigue, joint pain, insomnia, general stiffness and headache).~Hypothesis: Treatment with VSL #3 compared to placebo will improve non-intestinal symptoms of IBS in GW veterans.~Aim #3 Determine whether changes in gut flora and plasma cytokines correlate with treatment response in GW veterans.
The overall objective is to determine whether VSL #3 will improve 1) intestinal symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and 2) non-intestinal symptoms (fatigue, joint pain, insomnia, general stiffness and headache) associated with IBS. All of these symptoms are part of the Gulf War (GW) illness.