Experts in South Korea have given 112 people who suffer chronic constipation a tablet that contains either a type of E.coli, a bacterium often associated with common stomach upsets, or a placebo. Scientists predict that those who take the E.coli will see a number of positive results, including the movement of digested food through the bowel being speed up.

Although some E.coli is often linked to food poisoning, the type in the pill - E.coli Nissle - is believed to be harmless and acts as 'good' bacteria while living naturally in the intestine. It's thought the bacterium will focus on the muscle lining the colon, boosting movement through the bowel. Quality of life will be monitored in both groups, as well as the number of bowel movements.

Constipation affects almost everyone at some point in live, but for 15 per cent of adults the symptoms persist. When chronic, those suffering have two or less bowel movements a week over several months, which can cause bleeding, bloating and abdominal pain.

In most cases it's unclear what caused the condition, whereas in some instances it may be down to factors such as medication. A new theory suggests chronic constipation is triggered by a bacterial infection in the bowel that slows down the natural process.

Previous studies have found a link between E.coli Nissle and easing tummy problems. For instance, the University of Luebeck, Germany, found increased contractions in the stomach thanks to the bacterium, while an animal study at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, saw increased electrical activity in muscle cells.

Dr Ayesha Akbar, a consultant gastroenterologist at St Mark's Hospital and the British Society of Gastroenterology, commented on the latest research underway, saying: "Chronic constipation has a significant impact on individuals not only due to symptoms, but on quality of life and ability to work.

"The gut bacteria is increasingly implicated in health and disease, and more clinical trials are needed to determine the clinical effectiveness of probiotics in common gastrointestinal disorders. This study will hopefully enhance the data."

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