Probiotics, beneficial live microorganisms that can aid digestion and immune function, are naturally found in some foods. While research suggests probiotics offer limited benefits for most gastrointestinal conditions, they have proven effective against diarrheal diseases, especially in children. Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, and Bifidobacterium are among the most common probiotics.
Are There Natural Sources of Probiotics for Horses?
While the provided article focuses on probiotics for humans, it does introduce the concept of probiotics as live microorganisms that can benefit the digestive system. The most common types of probiotics are lactic-acid bacteria, such as strains of Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, which are found in yogurt, cheese, and some pickled foods.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, typically bacteria or yeast, that can be consumed to help prevent and treat certain health conditions, especially gastrointestinal disorders. The idea that consuming specific microorganisms can improve digestion and immune function began in the early 20th century with the work of Élie Metchnikoff. Interest in probiotics increased significantly in the early 21st century as more information about the human microbiome became available.
What are the Benefits of Probiotics?
Probiotics have been studied for their potential to prevent and treat various gastrointestinal conditions, including Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis. Studies suggest that probiotics may have little to no detectable benefit for most people at risk of or affected by these conditions. However, there is convincing evidence that they can effectively treat diarrheal diseases, particularly in children.
What Foods Contain Probiotics?
Some of the most common foods containing probiotics include yogurt, cheese, and certain pickled foods. These foods naturally contain lactic-acid bacteria, such as strains of Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, which are normal components of the human microbiome. Probiotics are also available over the counter in capsules, powders, liquids, and chewable tablets.
Are Probiotics Safe?
Probiotics are generally considered safe, but they have been associated with severe bacteremia (bacterial infection of the blood) and fungemia (fungal infection of the blood) in patients with compromised immune systems. Probiotic-associated bacteremia has been reported in individuals with severe ulcerative colitis. In preterm infants, probiotics have reduced the likelihood of necrotizing enterocolitis, but cases of probiotic-associated sepsis have been documented.
Would you like to learn more about the specific strains of probiotics and their effects?